Worried' Everton boss Koeman to hold talks with players

Ronald Koeman will hold a meeting with Everton's senior players today after admitting he is “worried” by his side's slump in form.

A disappointing start to the campaign hit a new low on Thursday as their Europa League group stage campaign began with a 3-0 defeat to Atalanta.

Three goals in 17 first half minutes condemned the Blues to a dispiriting loss, just five days on from the same scoreline against Tottenham at Goodison.

Koeman's side have just four points from their opening four games – albeit having played last season's top three already – with the visit to Manchester United to come on Sunday.

The Dutchman will address the issues with the experienced squad members today, and remains confident his side can turn their fortunes around.

He does admit, however, that the defeat to the Serie A side served as a wake-up call.

“After this press conference I’ll have a meeting with the key players,” Koeman said. “It’s time for the experienced players to stand up.

“I’m worried after what I saw yesterday.

“I wasn’t worried after Chelsea. The reaction should have started in the second half against Tottenham.

“But that and the first half against Atalanta is enough reason to be worried.

“We had a bad run for a time last season, and I have confidence we can get out of this run. We knew at the start of the season, with the Europa League (it would be difficult).

“We have one point less from last season from the same games v Chelsea, Man City and Tottenham.

“But yesterday was a wake-up call.”

Everton FC