Ronald Koeman insists that Wayne Rooney was not brought back to improve Everton’s goal tally.
Rooney marked his second spell with the Blues with an instant impact as he proved the difference against Stoke City in Saturday’s Premier League opener.
The 31-year-old’s headed goal ultimately settled a close encounter with the Potters as Everton held on to secure maximum points on Saturday.
Koeman, though, insists Rooney was not targeted because of his scoring ability.
“He is that intelligent player and with his experience when the team needs patience,” said the Everton manager.
“[When the team] needs a fall, he’s going down instead of Gana [Gueye] or Tom Davies, who always try to win the battle. That’s cleverness of the player.
“He made the right choice in possession every time, making right decisions on the pitch. That’s quality and experience. It was really important today.
“We did not sign Wayne because he will score 25 goals, he will bring experience and winning mentality and cleverness to the team.
“That’s the main reason we signed Wayne.”