There’s whole new energy in the air already

THERE was a completely different energy about Goodison Park. The atmosphere inside the stadium, the freedom Frank Lampard gave the players to express themselves. On the front foot, the midfielders driving forward. This is what Everton fans have wanted for so long.

Confidence is always boosted by getting the first goal but this was as good a performance as we have seen from Everton this season, especially during the first half.

The way they responded to conceding was great to see. In recent times, Everton would probably not have gone on to win the game once Brentford made it 2-1. But they did not let their heads drop and came back stronger. They had a third less than 10 minutes later.

This was a great way for Frank to get the fans on board and build some momentum going into a huge game at Newcastle. I know they did not play but you could tell that the signings of Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek have already had an impact. You could see it in the likes of Anthony Gordon and Demarai Gray. They know Everton have strength in depth now and that they need to fight for their place. I have always said competition for places enhances performance. The appointment of Frank is a little outside the box from Everton but I think it is a smart move. Everton have gone down the tried-and-tested route so

often. They did it with Ronald Koeman, they did it with Carlo Ancelotti, they did it with Rafa Benitez. It has not worked.

Frank is hungry and the job he did at Chelsea is always under-appreciated. To get them into the Champions League in his first season during a transfer ban was a huge achievement.

The way he got Derby playing, a game away from reaching the Premier League in his first season as a manager. Bringing through the likes of Mason Mount and Fikayo Tomori while he was there. He always tried to play good football.

Everton have spent a lot of money but they are still in a precarious position. It is no guarantee of success but I am fascinated to see how Frank does over the next couple of transfer windows — who he brings in, how he gets the side playing. If this first game is anything to go by, the signs are good. And the Evertonians are right behind him.

It is a great opportunity for Alli and Van de Beek, too. Any footballer who is not playing wants the platform to show what they can do. When you have been doubted, the only way to prove people wrong is to get back on the pitch. Two hungry players — and a hungry manager — all with a point to prove. For Everton, it is a risk worth taking.