Saturday 12 August 2017 18:52, UK
Ronald Koeman says Everton's opening day victory against Stoke is "a perfect result" although admits that his side could have played better.
It was a fairy-tale return for Wayne Rooney after his move back to Goodison Park this summer as he nodded home the winning goal in first-half injury time to seal a 1-0 victory for the Toffees.
While the opening period was a lacklustre affair from both sides, Koeman says switching to a back four for the second half helped improve the performance of his side.
"I'm happy with the points. Maybe every manager before the start of the season thinks that their team is ready and prepared but it was really a difficult game," he told Sky Sports.
"Stoke made it really difficult and if you know that, and you keep the clean sheet and the points at home, it is a perfect result. It was a win and that's what you like to have after the first match.
"I think it is a nice challenge for everybody, maybe it bought a few more nerves to the team as it was the first time for the points and playing at home.
"Maybe that was the reason we didn't play well but I think the second half was much better. It was much better controlled and I think we had some good counter-attacks to score a second goal."
Rooney also came in for praise from his manager after a fine performance, with Koeman reiterating his belief that the forward is the best at what he does.
"We know he is one of the best players in his position and he showed today the player that we expected with a lot of cleverness on the pitch," the Dutchman added.
"He made good decisions on the ball and scored a great goal. It was a great cross from Dominic and a great header but we can ask for more than he showed today."
