Gian Piero Gasperini admits Everton have been “a negative surprise” in the Europa League, as Atalanta need only a point to qualify.
It kicks off on Thursday at 20.05 GMT at Goodison Park and the Toffees are already eliminated after a dire run of results, while the Bergamo boys are on the cusp of a place in the next round.
“There’s no such thing as an easy game in England, as their teams are always tough to face, so we’re certainly not taking it for granted,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Gian Piero Gasperini admits Everton have been “a negative surprise” in the Europa League, as Atalanta need only a point to qualify.
It kicks off on Thursday at 20.05 GMT at Goodison Park and the Toffees are already eliminated after a dire run of results, while the Bergamo boys are on the cusp of a place in the next round.
“There’s no such thing as an easy game in England, as their teams are always tough to face, so we’re certainly not taking it for granted,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“In order to finish top of the group, we have to think of the decisive meeting with Lyon. Qualification is important for us, we are right there and want to finish it off.
“I don’t know if Atalanta were a positive surprise in the Europa League group, but Everton’s results have certainly been a negative surprise.”
Mattia Caldara is back in the squad after missing the trip to Inter on Sunday, but will require a late fitness test and might not be risked from the start, while Leonardo Spinazzola is still sidelined.
“I’ll choose the best line-up I have for the game. I never used the Europa League as an alibi for poor form in Serie A, as these are two different competitions. We started very strong in Europe and had some very good performances domestically too, but the results were a little inconsistent.
“It’s not that negative a situation, because Europe ought to push you forward in Serie A.”