Ancelotti explains strange Bernard pattern at Everton

Carlo Ancelotti has explained a curious quirk involving Bernard since he has taken charge at Everton.

The Italian veteran took over at Goodison Park towards the end of December following the sacking of Marco Silva earlier that month.

And the Toffees have seen a significant upturn in form which has seen them back in the hunt for European football next season.

And while Brazilian playmaker Bernard has played his part, there is an integrating trend in the way he has been utilised.

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The 27-year-old has started five matches under his new manager, but only one of those has come away from Goodison Park

And Ancelotti has explained his thinking behind the decision, while insisting he is a big fan of the winger.

Ancelotti told the Liverpool Echo: “I know really well all of the players, I know their qualities and also their defects.

“Maybe, for the fact, that at Goodison we have more possibility to control the ball, he is really good with the ball and he did really well against Crystal Palace where he scored the first goal.

“When the game is in balance, it is more difficult for him to prove his quality. When we have control of the game, for him it is easier for him to prove his quality. Maybe for this reason, I put him [in the team] at home and not away.

“He doesn’t have to convince me, I am already convinced he is a good player and helpful for us.”