Ronald Koeman insists he is committed to Everton project despite Barcelona 'dream' interview

Everton manager Ronald Koeman insists he will not leave Goodison Park before the end of his contract in the summer of 2019.

The Dutchman, who spent six years of his playing career at Barcelona, gave an interview with Catalan daily Sport this week, telling the publication he dreams of returning to the Nou Camp one day as manager.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday however ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Swansea City, the former Southampton manager insisted he remains solely focused on the long-term project at Goodison Park.

"It (his Barcelona ambition) does not change my position or my contract with Everton. I am really happy to be here and look forward to next season. It's a big project and I will be part of that project.

"The interview is coming out because 25 years ago we won the title at Wembley. Okay, it is normal they ask me about the Barcelona job. But there is no chance that I leave Everton before the end of my contract."

Koeman went onto explain what he feels he owes to the club, insisting the project that attracted him to Merseyside can see Everton break into the top six next season. Everton have already secured Europa League football for next season but the manager is keen for the club to continue to close the gap.

"When I got the offer from Everton it wasn't about this season, it was about the project. That we would like to change the team and that we would like to develop the team, make the team strong and have better competition with the big six in the Premier League. Already this season we see we are close, but not close enough.

"It's a really big complement to the players what we have achieved this season but for next season we would like to improve."