EPL opener against Spurs a test for Koeman’s Everton

Everton have a new man in the dugout for the pending season, as Dutch legend Ronald Koeman attempts to resurrect the Toffees fortunes. Koeman’s tenure on Merseyside begins with a tough at home against Tottenham on the opening day of the Premier League campaign.

Tottenham have not heavily reinforced their squad this summer, although they have strengthened their squad with the signings of defensive midfielder Victor Wanyama and striker Vincent Janssen.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino knows that his team was not far away from winning the Premier League title last season, but it will be far more difficult in the new campaign. The likes of Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea have improved their playing and coaching personnel.

Last season Spurs had a relatively sluggish start to the campaign, which coincided with a slow start for England striker Harry Kane. A trip to Goodison Park on the opening day of the campaign will be a tough one.

Everton under Koeman are going to be a far tougher team to play against than under the affable Roberto Martinez, especially at Goodison. The Toffees will be more organised and harder to score against in the coming season.

The side from Merseyside have looked rather lacklustre going forward in their pre-season campaign, so it may take a while for Koeman’s side to merge solidity with attacking threat.

This clash could be a classic beginning of the season tight encounter, as the two teams feel each other out, but in the end are not willing to take any chances going forward.

These two teams will have high expectations for the season ahead, but may have to settle for a point apiece in their Premier League opener.