Ronald Koeman is hoping Manchester United ruin his old club’s dreams of winning silverware to improve Everton’s ambition of qualifying for Europe.
The former Southampton manager will be watching the EFL Cup final on Sunday but he will do so without sentiment as a victory for United would significantly help Koeman’s quest to guide Everton into the Europa League.
A top six finish is not out of the question for Everton, who have found their stride since the turn of the year, but they would have the security of knowing seventh place would be good enough to return to Europe if United win the EFL Cup.