Everton goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg has undergone groin surgery.

Stekelenburg is expected to be sidelined for a further three weeks after undergoing a groin operation.

The Dutch goalkeeper has been out for over a month but went under the knife on his troublesome groin.

“He's had his operation and it was a success," caretaker boss David Unsworth said.

“He should be two or three weeks away. He is progressing nicely but still at the early stages of rehab."

Meanwhile, Unsworth admits they owe fans a win at Southampton after their humiliation this week against Atalanta.

"The great thing in football is you always have another opportunity – there is always another game, and that comes along very quickly," said Unsworth.

“We have to put that (the Atalanta match) to bed very, very quickly.

“I am really looking forward to it (Sunday's fixture). It will be a tough game. Southampton are a good team, they pass the ball really well.

“But we must see a reaction now. Our players must stand up and have the courage to go and get a result on Sunday.

“I think we always owe it to the Everton fans to perform. Our players know that. They know my feelings and sentiments towards the great Everton fans.

“I think they do owe them a performance and I think, and know, they owe them a win."