Blades are a good blueprint: Ancelotti

EVERTON manager Carlo Ancelotti believes his players have to commit to a jump forward if they are to challenge for Europe next season, irrespective of how big the gap currently is.

The Toffees are 10 points behind sixth-placed Wolves, but their experienced boss has called on his squad to take the leap of faith with him if they are to move to the next level.

And in an admission which will hurt Everton fans, Ancelotti said tonight’s opponents Sheffield United were the ideal role models.

“I think we don’t have to take into consideration how big the jump. We have to jump,” said the three-time Champions League winner. “We have to move forward, we have to improve and try to be better next season.

“They (Sheffield United) did really well this season and it was a surprise for everyone.

“Chris Wilder has done a fantastic job with this team, the players followed him. They can be a good example to follow.”

One player who Ancelotti will hope can make a big step forward is £27.5million striker Moise Kean.

The 20-year-old joined from Juventus last summer with high expectations but has scored just one goal, on his last start in January, managed to complete 90 minutes only once all season and has featured for just 765 minutes in the Premier League.

“The idea we have on him, I explained a lot of times this, he will be our player next season,” said Ancelotti.

“He learned the environment we have at this club, he learned the relationship with his teammates and they learn from him.

“It takes time. He is really young and he is a potential player with a lot of quality.”