Frank Lampard believes there is more to come from Richarlison after his recent heroics for Everton. The forward rolled in last week’s winner against Chelsea, netted the late equaliser against Leicester City and showed remarkable composure to score twice from the spot against Burnley. His goals have played a huge role in keeping Everton’s chances of survival alive – particularly in the absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin for much of the season through injury.
] Speaking ahead of the trip to Leicester City on Sunday, Lampard described Richarlison as a “huge talent” and revealed he works as hard off the pitch as he can be seen doing on it, often performing as a talisman who lifts his teammates.
Frank Lampard said: “With Richy I think and I know that he understands what my feelings about him are. I think he is a fantastic, huge talent, with a work ethic which is the reason why Everton fans are so drawn to him. The way he fights – he is a really tough boy – and some of that is due to his make-up and upbringing. It is a pleasure to work with him.”
While Lampard was full of praise for the Brazil international, who has now registered 51 goals for the Blues, he believes he is still developing – adding many observers fail to realise just how early in his career he still is. Recent work at Finch Farm has focused on helping the 24-year-old to become more ruthless in front of goal. Those efforts were rewarded at Goodison Park when he calmly finished past Edouard Mendy after stealing the ball from Cesar Azpilicueta and being fed by Demarai Gray. Lampard, who revealed Richarlison was available for the trip to the King Power Stadium despite still suffering from an ankle issue sustained in the defeat at Anfield,
Frank Lampard said: “We need to be more clinical at the top end of the pitch and that is why I was so happy to see Richy stick that one away.”
Detailing Richarlison’s importance to Everton’s bid for Premier League survival – a battle that will unfold over five games in just 14 days –
Frank Lampard added: “My point with him – where my job is – is to try and focus in on how we can make him better. Because I think there is more to come. You see glimpses of it all the time. Of course he wants to score more goals on a regular basis. It is all there for him. You forget how young he is because he has been in England for quite a while. The reality is he is playing at a really high level and is a huge focal point of the team. He is a massive reference for the fans. We need him in similar form for the rest of the season.”
