Everton are reportedly lining up Frank Lampard as the favourite to replace Rafa Benitez as manager with the backlash over Vitor Pereira hurting the Portuguese's chances of taking the job. Lampard has been out of work since leaving his job at Chelsea a year ago but has been tipped to return to Premier League management.
The Toffees’ search for a manager turned slightly chaotic on Wednesday when candidate Pereira discussed the hiring process live on Sky Sports News.
Pereira has received backlash from Everton fans and now it seems that Lampard is the favourite to replace Benitez.
According to the Independent, the 42-year-old has jumped to the front of the queue and would be backed with signings if he is appointed before Monday's transfer deadline.
Express Sport picks out three players who Lampard could acquire.
Everton could appoint former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard (Image: GETTY)
Ruben Loftus-Cheek
Now 26, Loftus-Cheek might want to get away from Chelsea for improved game time.
The midfielder was earning a reputation as one of the best young players in the country and went to the 2018 World Cup. But injuries have hampered his development and a move away from Chelsea could make sense.
Loftus-Cheek is still often used by Thomas Tuchel and has made 20 appearances across all competitions this season.
But a regular starting berth under Blues icon Lampard at Everton might be too tempting to turn down, and Everton need midfielders with Abdoulaye Doucoure and Fabian Delph both out for up to a month through injury.
Want the latest Premier League news as we publish it on Express Sport? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Lampard loaned Barkley to Aston Villa ahead of the 2020-21 campaign but might make more use of him in an Everton side that does not quite have the creative depth of his Chelsea team.
Barkley was a hero at Goodison Park having graduated the club’s academy and 178 appearances for the first team.
He then completed a controversial switch to Chelsea in 2018 but he has struggled for consistency among the Blues’ vast midfield options.
Now 28, Barkley’s driving runs through midfield that earned him comparisons with Paul Gascoigne seem a thing of the past.
A return to Goodison Park might be best for all parties.