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Koeman backs Klaassen to make Everton impact

Cape Town - Everton manager Ronald Koeman believes compatriot Davy Klaassen has what it takes to adjust to the Premier League's tempo and intensity.

The 24-year-old midfielder signed for the Toffees from Dutch giants Ajax earlier in the transfer window, and Koeman believes the experience he gained at his former employers will stand him in good stead.

Klaassen is a product of the legendary Ajax academy and made his first-team debut for the Eredivisie club in 2012, before going on to score 55 goals.

"Davy has made this step in his career at the right time," Koeman told the Liverpool Echo. "He spent four seasons with Ajax and gained experiences in Europe and with the Dutch team.

"He will have to get used to the high tempo we play and it will tougher for him, especially from a physical point of view, but Davy has developed well as a player. He is intelligent and can read the game."

Meanwhile former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is relishing the chance to play in the Europa League with his boyhood club and is determined to help them be successful.

The Toffees qualified for the European competition by finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, due to Manchester United winning the Europa League, and Rooney is hoping to do the same with the Merseysiders.

"Something I always wanted to do was play in Europe with Everton," Rooney said.

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