Frank Lampard said he’s “been really, really pleased” with the reaction from Everton fans but knows the situation is still a tough one.
The former Chelsea talisman joined the club following the sacking of Rafael Benitez and takes charge of his first game against Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday.
It’s his second stint in the Premier League after his year-and-a-half spell in charge of his former club.
Everton are 16th in the Premier League and Lampard was keen to emphasise the importance of not looking too far ahead.
He said: “In pure footballing terms, we know we’re in a position we don’t want to be in.
“I’m under no illusions. We have a squad who can improve quickly, I hope.
“It’s important to improve towards the move to the new stadium.”
More new faces have arrived at Goodison since Lampard’s appointment, including former teammate Ashley Cole.
Lampard said: “It’s very important to bring in Ashley Cole.
“I don’t need to speak about him as a player, he’s probably the best left-back we’ve produced. I’ve brought him in to be a great coach.”
Duncan Ferguson has stayed at the club as expected and Lampard was short and sweet as to why the Scot was kept on.
He said: “He’s a club legend, we can tap into that.
“Having Duncan around has been great, I’ve really enjoyed it.”
Cole arrived today after two players were added to the playing squad.
Both Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek came in on deadline day, two men Lampard was keen to bring in.
They were signed after “really positive conversations” with the board, including chairman Bill Kenwright.
The 43-year-old added: “Dele and Donny are very different cases.
“Sometimes it’s good to get a player with a point to prove. They’ve got the hunger.
“Alli is a versatile player who can get involved in build-up play. It’s nice to manage someone who occupies similar areas of the field to myself.
“A player like Donny is someone who can link play. Slightly different to what we have.”
Lampard highlighted the amount of work that will be required for Everton to turn their season around.
He said: “ We will be defined this season over the next 18 games, over the work we put in on the training ground.”
That period gets underway on Saturday as Brentford come to Goodison Park in the FA Cup.
Whilst Lampard didn’t say much about the tie, he did confirm a notable absence.
The manager said: “Dominic Calvert-Lewin picked up a small knock so he won’t be available. We hope he can be back for the games coming up.”
Calvert-Lewin may be back for Lampard’s first Premier League game in charge away at Newcastle on Tuesday.
The Blues then host Leeds at Goodison.
Those two games could prove vital in not only Lampard’s start at the helm, but Everton’s season as a whole.
[Featured image: Everton Youtube channel]
