Carlo Ancelotti has urged Everton to ‘move on’ from their Carabao Cup exit.
Wednesday’s quarter final defeat at the hands of Manchester United killed off the Blues’ most attainable pathway to winning silverware this season.
A Boxing Day trip to a struggling Sheffield United offers Ancelotti’s side a chance to restore confidence and solidify their Champions League credentials.
And the Everton manager is keen for his players to not lose sight of their current position as they prepare to travel to Bramall Lane on Saturday.
“I think we have to move on,” insists Ancelotti.
“Of course we are disappointed but we performed.
“We have to be able to recover the energy that we need to play against Sheffield United because it will be a tough match, an important match.
“We want to keep our position in the Premier League, which is a good position. Sheffield did a fantastic game against Brighton.
“It will be an important game. They need points, we need points.
“All the teams need points so it will be a tough became because the Premier League is like this.”
Everton will assess Richarlison ahead of the clash with the Blades following his suspected concussion midway through the second half against United.
The Brazil international’s previous absence through suspension saw his teammates fail to win any of their next three Premier League outings.
But Ancelotti emphasised the need for those called up for the game in lieu of Richarlison to ensure that the loss of their talisman is not as sorely felt.
He added: “Without Richarlison it will be difficult.
“If he has a concussion, he has to stay out [of the game].
“We have to follow the protocols and we have to replace him better than when he was not here.
“If Richarlison is not there it will be a great opportunity for the players that didn’t play a lot and for these games they can show their qualities.”
James Rodriguez will also be absent against Chris Wilder’s side as a result of the calf issue which has sidelined him for Everton’s previous four matches.