Frank Lampard said he is “delighted” for Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the striker’s important role in Everton’s 3-0 win over Crystal Palace. The 25-year-old opened the scoring after just 11 minutes and was a constant threat to his opponents at Goodison Park. It was his first goal since he scored against the same opposition in May of last year, coming in only his second start since returning from a knee injury that ruined the start of his season. Speaking after the win, Lampard said he was particularly happy for Calvert-Lewin after the frustration he has had to endure as a result of his injury setbacks. The Blues boss added he was excited at what the striker can bring to his side if he can remain fit.
Frank Lampard said: “I’m delighted for him firstly, because he has been frustrated and wanting to be involved and it really has been about trying to find the right moment fitness-wise, for that fitness and sharpness. Today you saw a fit, sharp number nine that has got all of the attributes that we know about. I haven’t had so much of that [a fit Calvert-Lewin since Lampard took the Everton job in January] so it’s almost new to me as well, to work the team around him, knowing we can hit him. Last year I think in the couple of games he was really fit at the end of the season we were hitting him from a distance and, not hoping, but trying to get the second balls. I think now we can use him as a strategy more, we can hit him. He’s also a good footballer, he can come in and hold it up. There are so many parts to his game and I am almost learning and seeing them in him, so I am really, really pleased with the different dimension he gave our game.”
Calvert-Lewin remains hopeful of fighting his way into the England squad for the upcoming World Cup. Lampard said that decision would rest with England boss Gareth Southgate.
Frank Lampard added: “The first thing I am pleased about is that Dominic himself can go home happy tonight and know that he has produced, because it always the first thing – he plays for this club and that he shows Everton what he can do. He did that.”
Asked how much it improves Everton’s prospects for this season,
Frank Lampard said: “I don’t think you can look away from the fact of what, in the modern day a £60m, £70m, £80m striker can do for you. That is a fact. When he is at his best the impact he can have on confidence in the team, and what he offers, is a huge deal. I don’t want to jump too far ahead because we have to keep working and at this moment in time we jump to 11th – but we know there are minimal points between the relegation zone and top end of the table at the minute. But I think if we can keep him fit then of course it is a big plus for us.”
