Ronald Koeman admitted the 3-0 Europa League defeat to Atalanta was a “big lesson” for his players.

Everton were beaten in Italy by goals from Andrea Masiello, Alejandro Gomez and Bryan Cristante in their opening group match, and Koeman was disappointed with the character shown by his side at the Reggio Emilia.

However, the Blues boss also shouldered the responsibility for the result.

“Everyone can do their maximum to gain a result, he explained. “But it is not the time or the place to criticise the players. I have to criticise myself because the team was not prepared for this tonight.

“It is a big lesson tonight. I thought that was happening after the third goal against Tottenham at the weekend but I need to ask myself the question what I did wrong. 

“What I saw was a big difference in belief and confidence between Atalanta and Everton. They had aggression and passion. We made mistakes, the pitch wasn’t the best, either, but it was the same for them. Atalanta showed to us the passion that you have to have when you play football.

“I am really sorry for the fans. It is a difficult moment.”