Everton boss Koeman baffled by Leicester’s return to form

Everton boss Ronald Koeman admits he cannot understand Leicester’s return to form after the dismissal of Claudio Ranieri in February.

Koeman’s side welcomes the Foxes, who have climbed five places in the table since Craig Shakespeare took over, to Goodison Park on Sunday.

But the Dutchman believes the Toffees’ strong home record of six straight wins will be enough to withstand Leicester’s efforts.

He said: “It’s difficult to understand why the team now is so different to before they sacked their manager, but the team now is like last season with the confidence they have.

“They have momentum but so do we at home and that’s what we want to keep on Sunday.”

Following injuries to key players and a one-match ban for Ashley Williams, Koeman believes Sunday is an opportunity for academy players to prove their worth.

Seven young players were named in Tuesday’s draw against Manchester United and Koeman has indicated the side that welcomes the Foxes this weekend may be similar.

“It’s an opportunity for young players to show their qualities, if they are on the level of the first team – to get experience you need to play and get minutes,” he said.

“We had seven players aged 22 or under in our squad on Tuesday. That’s all about the injuries we have but it’s a good sign, good for the future of the young boys.

“It’s maybe too many at this time but it shows we have some good young talents coming through the Academy.”