Everton great Graham Sharp says manager Carlo Ancelotti has quickly become a fans' favourite.

Already happily ensconced in the leafy suburbs of Crosby, a 20-minute drive from Liverpool, Ancelotti is often spotted walking on the beach by the locals.

Sharp said: “The Everton fans have latched onto the fact that he appears to like living in the area and has been saying the right things.

"Whether you are a player, a manager, you've got to show passion and a pride in representing your football club. I think he is bringing that back to Everton.

“The fans have recognised that and, hopefully, that gets across to the players and we can challenge for honours again.

“It's plain to see that, over the years with the change of managers, there has been a large intake and exit of players. I think, if we get a bit of solidity with Ancelotti, he can move things on."