Frank Lampard has confirmed that Everton are holding discussions with Anthony Gordon over his future after Chelsea failed to buy him in the summer.
Everton’s academy graduate became a big target for Chelsea during the summer transfer window. However, Gordon remains in Lampard’s squad to this day after Chelsea failed to meet the asking price for his signature.
But the 21-year-old could be attracting further interest from other clubs if he keeps developing well in the Premier League. Therefore, Everton will be keen to take steps to secure his long-term future.
Currently, Gordon’s contract is due to expire in 2025. Although that doesn’t mean they need to be in a particular hurry, extending his contract would send a clear message to his suitors.
Now, manager Frank Lampard has confirmed that Everton are talking with Gordon and his representatives. Although, he hasn’t given much away about what they have in mind.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Lampard told reporters: “The club are speaking with Anthony and Anthony’s people to see if we can get the right solution.”
So far this season, Gordon has started all six of Everton’s Premier League matches, scoring two goals.
One teammate who has been less prominent is James Garner. The midfielder is yet to make his debut for Everton after his summer transfer from Manchester United.
However, Lampard has lent his support to the 21-year-old, who has been catching the eye in training.
Lampard said: “He is looking good. He has trained really well. I’m a big fan of him as a player.”
Frank Lampard provides Dominic Calvert-Lewin update
There could also be a first outing of the season for striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The centre-forward has been absent due to injury.
Asked where he is at, Lampard replied: “Close and we’ll see come Sunday whether he’s ready to start a game or not.
“We have to be careful with him because he had a difficult injury and we’ll see for the weekend.”
Last season was also disrupted by injury for Calvert-Lewin; he only managed to start 15 Premier League matches. In his absence, Everton often struggled. It led to a relegation battle they ultimately steered clear of.
But on the topic of any pressure on him to stay fit now, his coach said: “He’s a top-level striker.
“I think he’s felt all that. He had a lot of that last season so he knows he’s got support and advice from me on that and I try not to give him that pressure on top of that. I just try and talk football with him and I know what he can give us because he gave it to us at the back end of last season. He’s experienced enough to deal with it.
“All we want is Dominic fit and firing. It’s difficult with injuries because it can very easily happen where you get over one and another one comes. It can be a small phase in your career at times and not for the want of trying to find a solution.
“He’s had that period and I just hope to see him having regular football and he’s certainly not going to get any undue pressure from either myself or the staff, we just work with him and just want to see him in the best condition and then he can help us.”
Meanwhile, backup goalkeeper Asmir Begovic will also be in line for a first Premier League appearance of the season. After all, Jordan Pickford is out with injury.
Everton will be playing against West Ham at Goodison Park on Sunday. They are still seeking their first league win of the season.
