Frank Lampard speaks out on new Jordan Pickford contract at Everton
Frank Lampard believes Everton can match the ambition of England number one Jordan Pickford at Goodison Park as transfer rumours continue to circulate about the goalkeeper.
The 28-year-old enhanced his reputation at the Qatar World Cup, pulling off strong performances against both Senegal and the USA in between the stick for the Three Lions.
According to journalist Dean Jones, Pickford’s recent form for both club and country in the last 18 months has left Tottenham interested in making a move for the goalkeeper’s services, with the lure of Champions League football a major factor.
But Lampard, speaking in a press conference on Friday (23 December), remained adamant that the Toffees could match the Englishman’s ambition. [The Metro]
When asked if Everton could persuade Pickford to commit his long-term future to the club, Lampard replied: “I feel we can. I don’t think it’s straightforward to look at any individual and understand what their ambitions are.
“I don’t want to speak for him but Jordan feels very happy at this club. That’s the impression I get.
“Maybe I was fortunate to play Champions League a lot, but when I felt comfortable at a club, I came in with a smile on my face every day, and I looked forward to every game, and if Jordan feels like that and we can match each other’s ambitions, I don’t see that as a problem.”
Tough task
Pinning Pickford down to a new contract at Goodison Park will be one of several priorities in the January transfer window, as the longer, he fails to put pen to paper, the more likely an exit will be.
The keeper would have boosted his pricetag by a hefty amount following a strong World Cup campaign, and it would take a huge bid to prise the Englishman away from the Merseyside club.
His role in Everton’s relegation survival last season cannot go unnoticed, and the save he pulled off against Chelsea will go down in the history books.
Despite his loyalty to the club, there may come a time that the Toffees need to replenish their finances and be forced to sell their most valuable asset.
If there is any man who could persuade Pickford to stay at the club, though, it is Lampard. The former Chelsea legend has seemingly forged a strong relationship with the keeper, and hopefully, this will be enough to keep him at Goodison for a few seasons to come.