VIEW FROM THE STANDS

The big talking point among the fans is who Carlo Ancelotti will sign. He was given assurances about strengthening the squad before joining, but signing the right players will be a big challenge. This season will be different to last because we have Ancelotti in charge from the start. If we don’t improve with one of the game’s most successful managers in charge, we might as well give up.

I won’t be happy unless the club finally gets recruitment right. We have wasted hundreds of millions.

Our most underrated player is Mason Holgate. Still only 23, he’s established himself as Ancelotti’s top centre- back and is a favourite among Evertonians. An England call- up surely awaits.

Look out for Jarrad Branthwaite, the 18- year- old signed from Carlisle for £ 750,000 in January. If Yerry Mina’s fitness issues continue, the youngster could get more chances. The player I’d happily drive to another club is Fabian Delph. Signed to add experience and bite to our midfield last year, but spent most of the season injured and rarely impressed when he did play. The pantomime villain will be Mike Riley. Until the multitude of problems with Premier League officiating – particularly the poor use of VAR – are fixed, he’ll remain the No. 1 target for frustrated fans, managers and players alike.

Did you know that we won the league at Anfield before Liverpool even existed!

Our key player will be Richarlison – the one superstar in our squad. We’ll finish 7th.