Bernard says his recent sparkling form is the product of being granted the “freedom” to influence matches by manager Carlo Ancelotti.

The Brazilian’s exceptional display in Everton’s game against Newcastle United a fortnight ago was rewarded with a stirring ovation from fans as Bernard skirted the perimeter of the pitch following his late withdrawal.

He started Everton’s three matches immediately before the weekend success at Watford and was also in Ancelotti’s team for the Italian’s first game in charge on Boxing Day.

Bernard’s contribution in Everton’s meeting with Newcastle included a sublime lobbed pass to create Moise Kean’s first goal for the Club. He aimed three shots and sent in a match-high seven crosses from open play.

“I am really happy with my performances and that I have been able to help the team,” Bernard told evertontv.

“Part of that [reason for his influence] is the freedom Carlo Ancelotti has given me to play.

“Now it is a process of development and understanding what the coach wants from you, evolving and developing day to day.

“What the manager has asked from me is to look to find spaces between the defensive lines.

“I have been able to find this space, receive the ball and turn around and play it quickly.

“The freedom Carlo has given me is enabling me to find these spaces.

“And the process of learning under Carlo has been very quick because I played in that role previously.

“This is the way I played at Shakhtar Donetsk under Paulo Fonseca (the manager in charge for Bernard's final two seasons with the Ukranians).

“Playing inside, you are closer to the goal, so more opportunities will come about: opportunities to help your teammates and, like against Newcastle, chances to shoot. I had one shot which went just over and and another from outside the box saved by the keeper.

“I will look to create assists for my teammates but also have in mind the scoring opportunities which may come about.”

Bernard was forced out of Everton’s New Year’s Day clash with Manchester City after being hurt in the warm-up.

He returned to dazzle from the start in the Blues' Premier League victory over Brighton & Hove Albion 10 days later.

Bernard made four key passes and his 38 opposition-half passes was the highest recorded by any player on the field.

Everton’s Goodison Park games against Brighton and Newcastle sandwiched a visit to West Ham United where Bernard was replaced at half-time by Anthony Gordon.

“There are times and days when it is just not happening,” said Bernard, who joined from Shakhtar in summer 2018.

“That is not for lack of desire, just that things aren’t happening or working out as expected.

“I did not have a very good first half, I made some silly errors.

“That gave the opportunity for Carlo to bring on Anthony.

“He had been playing really well and deserved his opportunity.

“When Carlo makes the decision to take off someone at half-time, or even in the first half, he is doing what is best for the team.

“You need to be aware as a player the coach has done that in the interests of the team.”

Bernard was an unused substitute for Everton’s come-from-behind 3-2 win at Watford on Saturday.

He will vie for a starting spot with Alex Iwobi and Theo Walcott  when Crystal Palace visit Goodison this weekend for Everton’s final fixture before the winter break.

“The competition is important,” added Bernard.

“We are all fighting for the same thing, for Everton to win matches.

“Everyone is enjoying Carlo being here. He is one of the world’s best managers and I can learn so much from working with him.”