Frank Lampard has spoken out on his sacking from Everton this week.
Lampard’s 357-day spell in the Goodison Park hot seat came to an end on Monday, with the club languishing in the Premier League’s relegation zone.
The 44-year-old replaced Rafael Benitez last January and was successful in preserving the Blues’ top-flight status with a late win over Crystal Palace.
In a statement issued through the League Managers’ Association, Lampard has publicly reflected on his departure after barely 12 months in charge.
He said: “Coming in to Everton last year I knew we were in a tough moment and I will always be proud of the incredible work and support from everyone involved to keep the team in the Premier League last season.
“Thanks to everybody that played their part as the whole club came together. I will never forget the incredible night against Palace that we shared.
“I want to thank all Evertonians for the welcome that you gave to myself, my staff, and my family. It truly is a special club with a huge heart, and an incredible history.
“I’m disappointed that we couldn’t achieve more together and wish all the players and everyone at Everton FC the very best for the future.”
Everton, meanwhile, have stepped up efforts to convince Marcelo Bielsa to take the reins as Lampard’s successor after he flew into London for talks.
The Argentine, 67, was pictured arriving at Heathrow airport for talks with the club’s hierarchy and majorty shareholder Farhad Moshiri over the vacant role.
Bielsa was initially reluctant over the task of steering Everton away from a second relegation battle in as many seasons after a high turnover of coaches.
Lampard became the sixth managerial casualty of Moshiri’s premiership since 2016, with only Carlo Ancelotti leaving of his own accord in summer 2021.
Coincidentally Ancelotti’s son Davide, who was assistant manager at Goodison during his 18 months in charge, has also emerged as a potential candidate.
Reports in Spain suggest the current Real Madrid no.2 is open to the prospect of returning to his former club and a first taste of senior management.
Ex-Burnley boss Sean Dyche is another to be sounded out but Moshiri is understood to favour Bielsa, who secured Leeds’ top-flight return in 2020.