Backing won’t change Lampard

FRANK LAMPARD is taking nothing for granted about his future ahead of the biggest game of Everton’s season. Majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri publicly endorsed Lampard this week and pledged to give him support. He insisted, however, that results must improve. Everton have lost nine of their last 12 games but beating Southampton today could radically alter their position. Asked if the pressure was off after Moshiri’s statement, Lampard said: ‘No. It’s my job to get on with things. I’m not making light of the statement at all, but, genuinely, I’ve been in this game a long time.

‘I left Chelsea having beaten Luton in the FA Cup and while preparing for the next game. It’s the job. I don’t get carried away when it’s the other way around. I don’t win a game or two and expect a new contract.’ Everton have yet to make a signing this month and face huge competition to bring in a forward. They wanted to sign Georginio Rutter, who is moving to Leeds for £35m, and Kevin Schade, who joined Brentford.