Fabian Delph’s social media clash with Everton fans was a mistake, says Carlo Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti has admitted Fabian Delph’s social media row with Everton fans was a mistake.

The Toffees midfielder reacted angrily to Instagram messages sent to him by Toffees supporters following their 1-0 FA Cup defeat to a second-string Liverpool side last weekend.

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In screenshots posted online, Delph called one fan a ‘delusional little boy’ and branded another supporter a ‘disgrace’ after his commitment was questioned.

Ancelotti confirmed he has spoken to the 30-year-old about his reaction to the criticism.

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The Italian said: "I spoke with him and said it was a mistake. He should not have reacted like this.

"After the game everyone was frustrated and sometimes you can react emotionally. Of course that is not good, but I think everyone can understand."

Ancelotti has told his Everton players to win back the trust of their fans when they host Brighton on Saturday.

After winning his first two games in charge, Ancelotti’s failure to end Everton’s 21-year hoodoo at Anfield saw travelling fans turn on their players.

However, the 60-year-old is hoping to get supporters back on side this weekend.

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He said: “I understand the frustrations of the supporters, this is normal when we lose a derby.

"I hope tomorrow the atmosphere in the stadium will be good. We need the support, we need a great performance tomorrow to react well after the defeat and that's it.

"Against Burnley the atmosphere was fantastic and I hope we can keep this atmosphere by playing a good game, showing good spirit and intensity and good quality of football."