What The Papers Say - 18 February

The views on this page are taken from the local and national media and do not necessarily reflect the views of Everton.

Reaction to Everton’s 3-1 defeat against Manchester City at Goodison Park features heavily across Thursday’s local and national newspapers.

The Daily Mail features quotes from Carlo Ancelotti, who explained why he believes Everton were beaten by the side who will become Premier League champions this season. Pep Guardiola's team are now 10 points clear at the top of the table.

Ancelotti said: “In this moment they are in a good mood and they have fantastic quality.

“I think it's very difficult to say a name other than City [to be champions].”

In the Liverpool Echo, the Toffees boss adds: "Of course, we don't need to have regrets for this game. In this moment, you can lose against Man City.

"From my point of view, the performance was good for one hour defending. Offensively we could do better when we had the ball."

The Echo also highlights some positive aspects of Everton’s display heading into Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Anfield.

“Richarlison led the line well, Lucas Digne filled in at an unfamiliar position with ease, the back four put in a lot of effort, and Tom Davies was composed and cool in midfield for much of the game once more,” writes reporter Adam Jones.

The local read reports centre-back Yerry Mina is likely to miss Saturday’s game after sustaining a calf injury against City.

Everton manager Ancelotti has revealed he is optimistic Allan and Dominic Calvert-Lewin will be fit to return against Liverpool, however.