Frank Lampard is set for a second interview with Everton following Vitor Pereira’s bizarre public comments discussing his talks for the role.
Lampard is understood to remain a ‘serious’ candidate for the position and will hold further talks with the Everton board on Thursday, as he seeks a return to Premier League management.
The former England midfielder has been out of work since leaving Chelsea in January 2021 and is in the frame alongside former Porto and Shanghai SIPG boss, Pereira.
Pereira had emerged as the leading contender to succeed Rafael Benitez at Goodison Park, with the Toffees’ board having been impressed with the coach during negotiations this week.
The discussions with Pereira brought a mixed reaction from the fanbase, however, whilst the 53-year-old’s subsequent interview with Sky Sports News – in which he detailed his discussions with the club and ambitions – has added a bizarre twist to Everton’s search for a new boss.
“What I felt from the club, I think they were enthusiastic [about] what I proposed to them: an intensive game, a pressing game, a game with possession,” Pereira said.
“We need to give confidence again to the players and the team. We need to approach the fantastic supporters to the team again.
“This is what I proposed to them and what I felt in the meetings is that they were very positive with the interviews. The feedback from the interviews was good feedback.”
The news regarding Pereira’s potential appointment saw graffiti reading ‘Pereira out, Lampard in’ sprayed outside the club’s stadium – a message which the Portuguese coach admits hurt.
“Of course. This is the first time in my career I’ve seen these types of things. I’ve never had these kind of comments about me. My CV speaks for itself.”
