• Everton put on alert by on-loan Belgian striker • 'I've been professional for five years - it is time'

This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

Romelu Lukaku has put Everton on alert by saying he needs to play Champions League football next season.

"I'm turning 21, I've been a professional for five years already. It is time," Lukaku told the Belgian daily Het Laatste Nieuws.

"It is high time that I play in the Champions League. It is the next step I need in my development. Full stop.

"Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney were experienced already at that level when they were just 23-24 years old. I want to play Champions League football now. I must now show I'm ready for it.

"I still have two years on my contract and I know Chelsea follow my development. In the end it depends on what the manager thinks about me."

The Belgian striker is currently on loan from Chelsea but it now seems unlikely that he would move to Everton permanently unless they can improve on their position of sixth in the Premier League and make up the five points needed for Champions League qualification.

Lukaku is recovering from an ankle injury but Everton hope he will back for their match at home to West Ham United on 1 March.