‘Carlo Ancelotti is wise. He has embraced essence of Everton while making his mark’

The morning after the transfer deadline had passed it was straight back down to business at Everton’s Finch Farm training headquarters.

International commitments meant that only half-a-dozen senior players had reported for training. The wind was howling and the rain pelted down. It was a morning best spent indoors, although when it was suggested to Carlo Ancelotti that he did not need to brave the elements, the offer was rejected.

The 61-year-old Italian manager wrapped up and put his players through their paces.

“Leading from the front, that’s Carlo,” one staff member said. Everton, top of the Premier League having won their first four games, have taken on their manager’s attributes.

It may seem like an insignificant insight, but it encapsulates the journey Everton have