Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson believes Everton are reaping the rewards for appointing Carlo Ancelotti as their manager.
The experienced Italian replaced Marco Silva in December and has guided the Blues to 14 points from his opening seven league games.
Ancelotti’s side have also climbed from 18th to ninth in the Premier League table following the sacking of Silva in December.
“I regard him as a friend. I’ve known him a very long time, even from the days when he was working with Arrigo Sacchi in the national team. I’m not surprised it’s gone well,” Hodgson told the press at his pre-match media conference.
“He was a clever appointment, someone with his experience and talent as a coach is obviously going to succeed wherever he goes.
“ Everton decided it was the right moment to bring him on board and have been rewarded with the results and the way players have responded to him.
“I’m looking forward to seeing him. When the game starts, I might be wishing I wasn’t seeing him.”
While Hodgson also believes his side will be facing an Everton team who have been 'exceptional' in recent weeks.
“Absolutely, their record over the last ten games has been quite exceptional,” the former England boss added.
“Carlo’s generated a lot of positivity and the players are full of confidence. We understand it’s going to be a tough game.
“It always is at Goodison Park, whoever the manager is, but we're ready for that as part of our Premier League season.”
