Vlasic up for Euro challenge

Nikola Vlasic last month tried to knock Everton out of the Europa League – now he hopes to shoot Ronald Koeman’s men to continental success.

The 19-year-old lined up in both legs of Hajduk Split’s play-off tie with the Toffees in August, with the Croatian side bowing out 3-1 on aggregate.

Just a week after the second leg, Vlasic swapped his homeland for Everton in a deal that could eventually reach £10million.

The midfielder impressed Koeman in the Europa match with Hajduk and could now play in the competition for the Blues as they kick-off the group stage in Italy at Atalanta.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” Vlasic said.

“I’ve never played in the group stage of the Europa League before, so it’s exciting. It is something new and a good challenge.”

Saturday’s 3-0 home loss to Tottenham was an afternoon to forget for Everton.

Deadline-day signing Vlasic came on to make his debut in the latter stages of the match and has already noticed the challenges posed by life in English football.

“I watched these players before on television and now I’m out on the pitch with them. They can help me a lot.

“I can only learn from them because they are very big players.

“It is very fast football here.”