Wayne Rooney says it’s important Everton don’t let Thursday’s “hurtful” Europa League defeat against Atalanta affect their momentum in the Premier League.
The Blues were already unable to progress from Group E but fell to a disappointing 5-1 reverse against Gian Piero Gasperini’s side at Goodison Park.
Rooney admitted his frustration at the result and performance against the Italians but said focus must now turn to Sunday’s trip to Southampton, a side a point and two places above the Toffees in the table.
Everton beat Watford ahead of the recent international break before earning a point at Crystal Palace last weekend and Rooney said: “It’s been positive in terms of picking up points in the league recently and we need to keep working on that.