Marco Silva has accused his ­Everton players of “hiding” ahead of a ­potentially crucial run of games, starting with Tuesday's Carabao Cup trip to Sheffield Wednesday.

But Silva could be losing his grip on members of his squad, with question marks emerging over his lengthy training sessions and ­ability to motivate his team.

Everton have lost three of their past four Premier League matches, the latest defeat coming at home against newly promoted Sheffield United, to put manager Silva under pressure.

“It is not the moment for anyone to hide,” Silva said. “I said it inside the dressing room, too [after the Sheffield United defeat] – there is nowhere we can hide, we have to show stronger character, personality. Unfortunately, in some ­moments, we didn’t see that. Now I don’t want anyone hiding, not me, not them. It is a moment for us to go and play football and to take ­responsibility as well.

“In the second half, I didn’t see that ability and in some moments many players were hiding and didn’t give solutions. I want ­everyone there – football is about playing and showing strong ­character. No one can hide. No one, I am always here for you, I am ­always here for our fans, I will not hide, no one can hide.”