"It was far from a perfect performance," Amorim told the BBC. "We have to improve, you can feel that in the game. After 15 minutes Everton controlled the game and it was difficult for us and we were losing the second ball.

"I felt that the players could solve some problems that we have as a team because of the quality that they have but it was far from a perfect performance but a really good result and tough match."

The former Sporting boss wasn't all doom and gloom, however, singling out Amad for praise as he flourished in a wing-back role and credited the tutelage of ex-interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.

"He (Amad) is really big in talent, but small in size," Amorim added. "He did a great job but he is also has to improve. He is a great moment. Ruud van Nistelrooy helped him a lot in his games in charge and now he's helping me.

"You have to congratulate the players and the rest of the staff. The most important thing on set pieces is the staff so great job. You can see how tall they are and how small we are as a team so we tried to see where we'd have space to create danger.

"It helps to have a new face, it always helps. We have to be very clear to our fans and this will always help. Rather than trying to convince the fans about this performance we have a lot to do, it will take time. Sometimes we are not playing well but defended everyone together. Our fans just ask for hard work and then in time they will ask for better football."