Tim Cahill hails fan atmosphere after first Everton win for Frank Lampard
The most important aspect of the 4-1 win for Everton in Frank Lampard’s first game was the atmosphere among the fans, according to Tim Cahill.
The Goodison legend has been tipped for a return to the club in an executive role after impressing as an advisor during the search that lead to the former Chelsea boss being appointed (Liverpool Echo).
Australia’s record goalscorer was full of praise for the performance on the pitch in the FA Cup victory over Brentford on Saturday (February 5), but was most pleased to see the fans back onside.
Writing on his personal Twitter account after the game Cahill said: “Great performance Everton. Good intensity, kept the ball well and out of possession good reaction and desire to win the ball back.
“Most importantly atmosphere first class from our fans.”
Vital sign
As starts go, ex-England midfielder Lampard’s has been pretty good, having lifted the mood, brought in new players, and got a big win already.
Yerry Mina’s goal was the first time the Toffees had taken the lead in a match since October, representing a significant early change.
Richarlison, Mason Holgate and Andros Townsend added further strikes to get the new manager off to the perfect start.
And the result cemented what Cahill has described as the most important element of the upturn in Goodison fortunes since the 43-year-old arrived, that the fans are back behind the team.
One of the most negative aspects of the whole debacle that surrounded Rafa Benitez’s departure, and the subsequent search, was the toxic atmosphere around the club.
Supporters came onto the pitch to protest the Spaniard in his last game, confronted Bill Kenwright about the mess, and marched on the streets against Vitor Pereira being appointed.
But the former Stamford Bridge hero has galvanised the fans and the players so far, and if he can add a few more results like Saturday’s, the atmosphere hailed by Cahill will surely continue.
In other Everton news, this pundit believes one Everton man is in the “last-chance saloon”.