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Ronald Koeman praises his former star Zlatan Ibrahimovic as Everton prepare to face Manchester United: 'He is one of the best'

Everton boss Ronald Koeman believes Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is still a top-class match-winner, 15 years after he first made the same assessment.

In 2001 Koeman took over as Ajax manager and quickly placed his trust in a 19-year-old Ibrahimovic, who had been marginalised by his predecessor Co Adriaanse.

Together the pair claimed two Eredivisie titles and a KNVB Cup, Koeman's first silverware as a coach and the first of many successes during Ibrahimovic's playing career.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is still one of the world's best players, says his former manager
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is still one of the world's best players, says his former manager

It is a period the Dutchman reflects on fondly ahead of United's trip to Goodison Park, where a 35-year-old Ibrahimovic is expected to lead the line for the Red Devils.