Klaassen comfortable at Everton, expects to improve

Davy Klaassen joined Ronald Koeman on the podium for the pre-match press conference ahead of Everton’s Europe League group game tomorrow against Atalanta. While the manager fielded most of the questions, the attacking midfielder was asked about the transition from Amsterdam to Merseyside.

“English football is a different way of playing, different speed, different intentions. That's what I wanted. It's something else and something bigger and I'm enjoying it.

“Of course our last results were not that good. But we’re trying to pick it up tomorrow and I think we have got a great season ahead and I’m looking forward to it.”

Does he expect his European experience help him as a player?

“I think playing in Europe will help every player. It’s not just about the speed, but also facing different cultures, that’s the good thing about Europe.”

How has he adjusted to being at Everton?

“The results have not been always good. Everyone likes to win, and we’ve not had a nice start.

“I like the Club, I like the life and my teammates have made me feel really welcome. I am enjoying it.

“I need to improve, we need to improve but we'll be there (this season).”

Did he talk to Wayne Rooney about the Europa League final when the two came up against each other, with Manchester United winning? How did he compare this Everton squad to Ajax last season?

“I didn't talk to Wayne about last year's final because I don't want to! We had a difficult start at Ajax last year but we picked it up and I'm confident we will do the same here. We have a really good squad and we can have a good season.

“I didn't need to lose in the final last year to be hungry - you always have to be hungry. I still feel the pain from last year’s final. We want to reach as far as possible in this year’s competition.

“It's important to start the group stage with a win because that gives you confidence and some space.”