Dvaid Unsworth left ‘in awe’ of Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti
When Everton appointed experienced manager Carlo Ancelotti in December it was seen as a phenomenal coup, and so it has proved.
The Italian has masterminded a remarkable turn of fortunes on Merseyside, with the Toffees rising from the brink of relegation trouble to the edge of European contention.
There’s still a long way to go, of course, but the early signs of life under the former Napoli boss have been extremely encouraging.
It’s only when you hear from those at Goodison Park, though, that you appreciate the impact that Ancelotti has made at the club.
The Toffees’ Under-23s boss David Unsworth is someone who has experienced life under Ancelotti first hand.
“I have to say he’s been brilliant,” he told the Liverpool Echo. “It’s probably the first time I’ve ever been a coach and been in awe of someone and couldn’t wait to meet him. He’s brilliant.
“He’s open-arms, open-door policy and said to us as an under-23 staff that we can watch training every day, watch whenever and I work with the first-team once-a-week now.
“He’s absolutely top-draw. Top, top class. Outstanding man, first and foremost, and I’m delighted as an Evertonian that he’s the manager of our football club.
“I’m pecking in his ear all the time asking him questions but I have to say the man has been fantastic to us as a staff. We are very lucky to have him, privileged to have him, and it’s a privilege to work alongside him.”
Will Ancelotti’s appointment prove to be a turning point for Everton?
It’s certainly looking like it so far. There’s still plenty of time before we can judge the above question and say ‘yes, that was when it all changed’.
It probably comes down to how much the club adhere to what Ancelotti wants to do moving forward.
If he is allowed to bring his transfer targets to the club and recruit top quality talents, then it’s not inconceivable that the Toffees become a Champions League club soon(ish).
It’s still very early days in the Italian’s reign on Merseyside, but these are suddenly hugely exciting times for the club.
In other Everton news, a Europa League club are said to be ready to turn down their chance to sign a Toffees flop.