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Pundit digs at Ancelotti as Benitez 'massive worry' revealed at Everton
Paul Robinson has heaped praise on Everton manager Rafael Benitez for drastically improving his side’s home form.
The former Spurs and England number one, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, said the 61-year-old would have been “massively worried” by his side’s results at Goodison Park last season.
The Toffees lost 1-0 at home to West Ham on Sunday – their eight home league defeat of the year.
In Benitez’s defence, only one of those losses came under his reign.
The other seven were under Carlo Ancelotti, who left for Real Madrid in June.
Everton would record their worst ever year of results at Goodison Park if they lose three or more times from fixtures against Watford, Tottenham, Liverpool, Arsenal, Leicester and Newcastle. (OptaJoe)
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Robinson suggested the return of Richarlison, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lucas Digne from injury would guarantee Everton avoid this.
“It must’ve been a massive worry for Rafa Benitez coming in. Most teams build their success on their home form,” he told Football Insider.
“If they are not picking up points at home, it is an issue.
“They were very poor at the back end of last season at home. It is important to bracket Benitez and Carlo Ancelotti separately though.
“When you look at what Benitez has achieved already with a depleted squad is brilliant, really.
“The way that they are playing, with key players to come back, you would expect them to get even better.
“You cannot criticise Benitez for a stat that is more reflective of the old regime.”
In other news, Everton have set their sights on signing the ‘next Robertson’ after scouts impressed.