Everton are in deep and dangerous waters. They have been for quite some time. Barring few sporadic moments of rise and joy, this roller coaster is heading downhill into the abyss. Frank Lampard may not see out another game as Everton’s manager as the risk of sack looms large.
The Toffees were thrashed and humiliated at home in 4-1 loss to Brighton and Hove Albion as Lampard’s side failed to turn up in the first home game of 2023. Everton’s ever expanding catalog of disasters had a new highlight as the Toffees shipped three goals in seven minutes.
The Blues of Merseyside heavily relied on their defence throughout the campaign. Thanks to the presence of generals like James Tarkowski and Conor Coady, Everton were able to mask their inefficiency but the band aid has now been ripped off as the defence was simply outclassed by Brighton’s smooth movement.
It is difficult to fathom how can Lampard survive this loss? He shouldn’t be the only culprit but changing the manager is the easiest option at the table. The Toffees have 15 points in 18 games and are now without a win in the last six Premier League games. Everton have taken only five points out of last 10 games and are treading on dangerous grounds when it comes to relegation.
Everton boss Frank Lampard comments on his position amid sack fears
The gritty performance against Manchester City did ease concerns temporarily but the dreadful performance against Brighton has brought Lampard, players and most importantly the board back in the spotlight of angry fans who are disgusted by how the club is being run.
Understandably, Lampard is aware of the brunt of the fans and the media and the sack sword hanging over his head. When asked about the delicate situation regarding his position as the Everton manager, Lampard insisted that he is focused on working and what needs to be done the next day.
"You’re working always. The only concerns you can have is the work you do the next day. Since the minute I got here, we were in a relegation battle and it’s something you have to handle. It might mean results and days like this but you have to focus on going again because it’s the things you can control.Since I’ve been here, we’ve been in this situation or relegation battle last year and through this season. It’s not a case of fear, it’s a case of keep working. I can’t control the talk or decisions when you’re around this area of the table.When you lose a game like this, I absolutely understand any reaction. I don’t listen to too much of it because if you do, it becomes your focal point so I don’t focus on it. (via Liverpool World)"
Perhaps, the Southampton game is going to be Lampard’s last chance to save his job and it will require something truly magical to turn the tide. If the Toffees fail to turn up against Southampton, the reset button will be hit again.
Will Frank Lampard face the sack?