Seemingly not fitting into Ronald Koeman's plans, Everton winger Gerard Deulofeu has spent the second half of this campaign on loan at AC Milan.

He was struggling to get regular game time under the Dutchman towards the end of 2016, but the 22-year-old still has plenty more to offer his parent club, who he joined from Barcelona in 2015.

Despite making just 13 appearances for the Merseyside outfit this term – failing to score and picking up just one assist – Deulofeu has impressed with the Serie A side and he should return to Goodison Park full of confidence.

He has made nine outings in all competitions for the Italian giants, scoring his first goal of the season against Fiorentina last month as well as setting up three goals for his teammates.

Here are THREE reasons Deulofeu could be a key man for Everton next season, if Koeman gives him the chance…

His relationship with Lukaku

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Romelu Lukaku's presence at Goodison Park could boost Deulofeu’s chances of making an impression when he returns to the club in pre-season.

During the 2015/16 campaign, six of the Spaniard’s first seven assists in the Premier League were put into the back of the net by Lukaku.

Ronald Koeman will know the potential and understanding is there and the relationship between the two could be reignited next season if the winger is given a regular run in the side.

The Toffees' lack of width

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Following the long-term injury to Yannick Bolasie, and with manager Ronald Koeman seemingly not fancying Aaron Lennon, Everton have been left with a real lack of width in recent weeks.

In fact, the Dutchman has perhaps had to rely on the likes of Kevin Mirallas and young January signing Ademola Lookman more than he would have liked, and Deulofeu would certainly boost the options in wide areas when he returns to Goodison Park at the end of the season.

Previous performances

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Despite the fact that Ronald Koeman doesn't seem to fancy him, or just hasn't been impressed with his level of performances since he took the helm, Deulofeu's previous displays for the Toffees show that he has a lot to give.

Last season the former Barcelona man made 33 appearances in all competitions for the Merseyside outfit, scoring three goals and picking up an impressive 13 assists, and perhaps he will return from his loan spell with AC Milan with some more consistent showings.

Do YOU agree, Everton fans? Let us know below.