Romelu Lukaku has described the final four hours leading up to Monday’s transfer deadline as a ‘crazy evening’.
One of three late arrivals at Goodison Park, alongside James McCarthy and Gareth Barry, the 20-year-old Belgian international will now play in the blue of Everton as opposed to Chelsea for the 2013/14 season.
Currently away on international duty with the Red Devils, the powerhouse forward revealed the influence Roberto Martinez had on his decision to turn down a second loan spell at West Brom, where he plundered 17 Premier League goals last term.
“It was a crazy evening,” Lukaku explained. “Different clubs called me and I had to take the right decision.
“Roberto Martinez called me for 30 minutes and explained me what he expects from me. I decided that Everton was the best choice. They are a more prominent club than West Brom where I had a good time.
“I was sitting in my hotel room in Brussels when the phone went to tell me I was going out on loan again. It was 7pm, and that was the first I knew of it. There had not been a mention of it before then, but after speaking to my parents, I decided to take the plunge.
“The important thing, at 20, is to be playing, and while West Brom was an option, Everton was a better one. There are a few things I need to improve in my game, and Everton’s footballing approach and possession play can be perfect for me.
“My movement and runs to the far post and near post could be better, and I have already had a good, long conversation with the manager Roberto Martinez about that.
“I’ve also known Kevin Mirallas since I was 14, and that should help. We talked about [the loan move] all last night and I am looking forward to playing.”