Ancelotti outlines how Liverpool bruising has helped transform Everton star

Carlo Ancelotti Liverpool v Everton February 2021

Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti says that Richarlison’s recent form proves he is a “better player” than he was at the start of the season.

The Brazilian forward has scored four goals in four games, including two in two Premier League games.

However, his recent league run, which features the fine finish against Liverpool, comes after going eight games without a goal in the top flight.

What’s more, his brace against Tottenham proved crucial in the topsy-turvy 5-4 FA Cup win.

As such, Ancelotti told his latest press conference that he has faith that Richarlison has turned a corner.

“He is a better player than he was in the first part of the season,” the Italian manager told reporters (via the Liverpool Echo).

“Why? Now he is working with consistency and is focused.

“At the start of this season he was suspended for three games, against Liverpool [in October] he wasn’t fit physically because of travelling a lot for the international games.

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“Now, he is back and can easily, easily reach more than 10 goals this season.

“Richarlison is a top talent, that’s it.”

The striker has scored 10 goals this term, but only has four in the Premier League. He also has three assists.

Meanwhile, it has been a good week for the Toffees; the club have gained planning permission for their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, which will seat 52,888 people and open in time for the 2024/25 season.

What’s more, left-back Lucas Digne signed a new deal after helping his side to their first win over Liverpool at Anfield since 1999.

Ancelotti happy with Everton progress

Ancelotti.Everton.TEAMtalk

“In the last few days,  a lot of good news and we are working to keep the good news every day,” Ancelotti added.

“It was a good result, a step forward for the new stadium and Digne signed a new contract.”

Ancelotti, whose contract at Everton expires in 2024, wants to be there when the new ground opens.

“I would like to be there when the new stadium will be opened,” he said.

“It will be a good achievement for me, of course. I think to finish the contract in 2024 you did a good job and when you did a good job the contract will not be stopped in 2024, it will continue.

“So for sure, for the time I spent here it is almost one year I feel good so I would like to stay as long as possible.”

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