Traore: Everton style attracted me

Everton striker Lacina Traore chose to join the club on loan because of the style of football played under manager Roberto Martinez.

The 23-year-old moved to Goodison Park on a temporary deal from Ligue 1 side Monaco earlier this month, and could make his debut against Tottenham next Sunday.

With West Ham having been among a number of other clubs interested in signing the former Anzhi Makhachkala forward, Traore stated Everton was his preferred destination due to their style of play.

“There were other clubs interested but Everton were there and they had a good possibility of getting into Europe,” he explained on Thursday.

“It was quite close but Everton was my choice. Why Everton? The way Everton play, they are more of a passing side.

“I like the style of play and the technical side, which is played here at Everton. Also, I looked at where they are in the league, so I think with that emphasis on skill and passing game I can settle in as quickly as possible.

“When I first found out Monaco wanted to loan me, as soon as I found it was the English league it was the a league I dreamed of playing in.

“It’s a league which gets lots of top players and gets a lot of media coverage throughout the world and it’s a dream to be here.”

Traore also suggested he could remain at Goodison Park past the end of the current season, and stated his ambition to challenge for a spot in the Ivory Coast’s FIFA World Cup squad.

“I do belong to Monaco but it’s a loan for six months so it’s a case of looking where we are at the end of the season,” he added.

“I’m here to work hard and it’s important I get some game time. I want to perform at my top level.

“The World Cup is looming and all players involved will be wanting a chance to get there.”