Romelu Lukaku: 'I am among world's best'

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku has declared himself one of the world's best players after enjoying his most prolific season in the Premier League.

The Belgian notched up 18 goals for the Toffees in the league despite a disappointing season for the club that saw them finish 11th in the table before Roberto Martinez was sacked as manager.

"I'm among the best. That's good. Personally I am happy," Lukaku told World Soccer magazine. "I did expect to produce a season of this calibre."

Lukaku also admitted that he is looking forward to potentially going up against club teammates Seamus Coleman and James McCarthy when Belgium play the Republic of Ireland at the Euros later this month.

"They are happy to be going to France and warn me that they are going to make life difficult for us," he added. "I jokingly reply that we won't be easy meat.

"It comes up a lot in the dressing room. Even though our focus is on the Premier League, it's not been great for Everton and that's the main topic of conversation."

Lukaku recently admitted that he could depart Goodison Park this summer as he goes in search of Champions League football.