The Belgian winger – who played for the Premier League club from 2012–2019 – hung up his boots in 2023 and though he is currently enjoying learning the ropes behind-the-scenes at Belgian Division 2 side SC Eendracht Aalst, he is hoping to eventually return to Merseyside.

He told FourFourTwo magazine: “I’m currently the sporting director at Eendracht Aalst, a lower-division club in Belgium. It’s close to my home and a big historic club trying to get back into professional football.

“My role involves preparing the team, hiring staff, selecting players and coaches, and working on sponsorships.

“It’s a good way to gain experience in this new role.

“My dream is to return to Everton in the future, but I know I’m not ready for that yet. I need to keep learning.”

Kevin adored the Everton fans and “cried” when his time at the club came to an end because he didn’t feature in then-manager Ronald Koeman’s plans.

He said: “The fans were fantastic. Every home game was in front of a full stadium.

“It’s a family club, and the people were incredible.

“When I arrived, I didn’t like the weather, but when I left, I cried because I didn’t want to go.

“My family was very happy in England. Being at Everton was a special part of my life.”