Here are your Everton morning headlines for Thursday, 24 September.
Carlo Ancelotti refuses to single out Jordan Pickford
Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti has admitted his team must improve in how they play out from the back but refused to single out Jordan Pickford for criticism.
The England international saw a pass out from the back intercepted, resulting in a Fleetwood goal, in last night’s 5-2 League Cup win.
The 26-year-old goalkeeper was also criticised for failing to stop Fleetwood’s second goal, appearing to let the ball through him.
"I think the first goal was not an individual mistake because we passed the ball back to Jordan, it was a really difficult ball and we could behave differently,” Ancelotti said post-match.
"Of course you have to improve there. We want to build up from the back, but when there's no risk. If it's risky it's no good because we can concede a goal like we did. It can be a good lesson for the future.
"I didn't speak to him and, as I said, I have to speak with players that were involved when we build-up. Jordan was not the only one."
Here’s what the Blues boss said in full .
‘Bid’ made for Jasper Cillessen
Spanish outlet Marca ( via HITC ) report that Everton have had a bid turned down by Valencia for Netherlands international Jasper Cillessen.
The goalkeeper moved from Barcelona to their La Liga rivals last summer.
A number of high-profile first-team players have already left the Mestalla so far this transfer window, but it’s suggested that Everton’s offer fell well short of their £31m valuation of the 31-year-old shot-stopper.
Here’s all the latest Everton transfer news and gossip .
Ancelotti ‘surprised’ by Niels Nkounkou
Ancelotti has given his verdict on Niels Nkounkou after the left-back’s eye-catching performance against Fleetwood in last night’s 5-2 win.
The summer signing from Marseille was a lively presence for the Blues and capped off a fine individual display by setting up their fifth goal with a backheel.
"He had a good performance, he continued the performance he had against Salford,” the Everton boss said.
"He's showing good quality in front, he has to improve defensively, but in front he has a lot of quality.
"He played with a lot of confidence, he has courage, he has character.
"I'm really pleased for him and also surprised."
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