Ronald Koeman’s has warned his players of the threat posed by Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe.
The 33-year-old has been in scintillating form during the early stages of the 2016-17 season, netting two goals in his opening three games to bring his overall tally for 2016 to 11.
Last time out Defoe netted a confident penalty against Koeman’s former club Southampton, and he also found the net against Saints during the Dutchman’s tenure on the south coast.
Speaking to Evertonfc.com, Koeman admitted the Toffees must stop Defoe if they hope to return to Merseyside with a win.
“Defoe is very dangerous.
“He is always finding space with good movements.
“If he has a chance, normally it’s a goal,” continued Koeman.
“We need to prepare for him because he is showing his productivity as a striker.
“But it’s not just Defoe - if we can stop the midfielders passing to him then we don’t have that problem.”
