LIVERPOOL: Frank Lampard has been sacked as manager of Premier League club Everton, the club announced on Monday, after a poor run of form that has left the team in a relegation battle.

Lampard’s last game in charge was Saturday’s 2-0 league defeat at West Ham United, which kept Everton second-bottom of the table on 15 points after 20 games, above Southampton on goal difference, and two points adrift of the safety zone.

“Frank and his teams commitment and dedication have been exemplary throughout their time at the Club, but recent results and the current league position meant this difficult decision had to be taken” the club said in a statement.

“Everyone at Everton would like to thank Frank and his coaching staff for their service during what has been a challenging 12 months. We wish Frank and all his backroom team well for their future in the game,” the club added.

Joe Edwards, Paul Clement, Ashley Cole and Chris Jones have also left the Club. Alan Kelly will remain as goalkeeping coach.

The Merseyside team had been floundering under the former England international, having last won a league game in October when they beat Crystal Palace 3-0 at home.He took over at Everton after the Merseyside club parted ways with Rafa Benitez, continuing the managerial revolving door at a club struggling to revive former glories.

Lampard’s immediate task was to save Everton from relegation. A task he managed on the penultimate game of the season as his side hit back to beat Palace.

Published in Dawn, January 25th, 2023