Roberto De Zerbi has given two of his Albion stars food for thought – after he invited them to his place for dinner.

The head coach makes a habit of having selected players around for a chat away from the work environment.

It is something he started when he was in charge at Sassuolo.

This week it was Ansu Fati and Pervis Estupinan who were over for some pasta and to watch the Napoli v Barcelona game.

De Zerbi’s demands for Ansu to up his game are already on the record.

He also feels Estupinan can give more than he has in recent games.

Both men went on late in the 5-0 romp at Sheffield United.

Ansu had a part in the final goal but Estupinan looked out of touch and did not really join the party.

Ahead of Everton’s visit to the Amex, De Zerbi said: “Pervis is another very good player.

“Last season he played very well. This season he can play better.

“I am not happy with his performances. He can play better.

“We are playing in a different way, usually with three at the back, but I think he can give more and more, and he has to play better.

“My demand for him is to play better because he is an important player, a crucial player for us.

“Last season he was crucial, and my expectations from him are bigger than his performances.”

De Zerbi has been pleased with Ansu’s reaction to demands for him to up his game and make more of his talent.

The Seagulls boss added: “He knows he has to give something more and we are here to help the young players, especially if these young players have a big talent.”

De Zerbi feels the meetings away from the club are a key part of getting to know his players.

He said: "It can help to know the player better on the pitch but also off the pitch.

"And then the players are like my children. They are young guys.

“In football we are used to demanding every day, but sometimes it is right to understand if they need something more, something different, and I believe in relationships."

Both men could be needed down the left today as Kaoru Mitoma struggles with a back issue.

De Zerbi was keen to point out it was not caused by the Mason Holgate foul which earned the Sheffield United man a red card.

Julio Enciso is another potential left-sided option if he comes off the bench.