Carrick admits recent break was helpful

The Reds will return to action after 13 days against Everton on Monday in the Premier League.

Since his appointment, Carrick is unbeaten in five games, posting four wins and one draw, with the onus on building further momentum against the Toffees.

Some of our players have shared holiday snaps in recent days, showing they've enjoyed a break before the resumption of top-flight action.

“We’ve tried to make it useful, in different ways," began Michael in today's pre-match press conference.

“I think when there’s change [in management], the month we’ve had, it’s important for everyone to take it in, train a bit, few days off, train a bit.

“Keep the balance right. Moving forward, the fixtures have thrown up a mixture of gaps, so it’s just adapting, especially [ahead of] the [March] international break. We’ll manage it as we go.”

Everton are without some of their key players for our visit, none more so than England international Jack Grealish, who is out for the season with a foot injury.

The hosts will be looking to chalk up a famous win against us on Monday Night Football, with this our first visit to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

“A lot goes into the game, knowing what it takes to have success in this league,” added Michael.

“It’s a new challenge for us, it’s going to take a lot. Going away to Everton, I know it’s a new stadium but it’s always been one of the toughest ones I’ve played away from home.

“We’ve got a good base, foundation, spirit.”