“Europe should be the expectation for Everton” claims ex-Toffees striker

Kevin Campbell believes under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, Everton should be aiming for European football once again.

The Italian manager has very much had the desired affect since arriving in the blue half of Merseyside, losing just once in the league. That sole defeat came at the home of the reigning champions.

Their otherwise exemplary form have meant expectations for the season have shifted for Everton fans.

Under Marco Silva, relegation was very much an alarmingly realistic prospect. After an upturn of fortunes in Duncan Ferguson’s brief interim stint in charge, Ancelotti has got the Toffees playing in such a way that Europe is now a realistic ambition.

Speaking to Love Sport’s Weekend Breakfast show, Ex-Evertonian Kevin Campbell revealed what he thinks of Don Carlo and his time in the dugout so far.

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“The Ancelotti factor is kicking in. The team seem to be really focused on what they are doing, so fingers crossed they might be able to do it (reach Europe).

“If I’m honest, Carlo Ancelotti’s resume is what makes players really stand up and take notice. He’s a winner, he’s managed almost all of the big clubs in the world especially in Europe. He has got that factor that can inspire players, so straight away the players are on the up.”

Campbell thinks Ancelotti’s influence has never been more obvious than in the performances of Everton’s forwards.

“He is getting a tune out of Richarlison, but you have to give Duncan Ferguson some credit too, he changed the system to a 4-4-2. Carlo Ancelotti saw what Duncan was getting out of the team, he’s come in and adopted the same system.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is doing well, Richarlison is flying under Ancelotti. When you’ve got two up front, you’ve always got a chance, Richarlison is basking in the Ancelotti regime.”