Everton: Frank Lampard 'changing things' at Goodison Park amid formation claim

Everton manager Frank Lampard is going to ‘take a while’ to ‘impose his own playing style’ at Goodison Park, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 43-year-old replaced the sacked Rafa Benitez in January, signing a two-and-half-year contract, but has made a slow start to life on Merseyside.

Benitez was relieved of his duties after securing just one victory in his final 13 Premier League games at the helm, leaving Everton sitting in 15th position, just six points above the relegation zone.

At first, it seemed as though Lampard’s arrival would have the desired effect as the Toffees comfortably saw off Brentford 4-1 in the FA Cup, sparking hope of a change in fortunes.

However, just one victory in Everton’s five top-flight fixtures during the English tactician’s short reign has left them hovering just one point and one place above the bottom three.

A humiliating 5-0 defeat at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur last time out highlighted the issues at hand for Lampard as he attempts to guide them up the table, although the new boss is attempting to overhaul the style of play in Merseyside.

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Under Benitez, Everton were more defensive-minded, often playing a 4-4-1-1 formation, relying on the presence of Allan and Abdoulaye Doucouré in the middle of the park for protection.

But Lampard is attempting to be more expansive and play on the front foot, when possible, which has potentially led to some initial teething problems.

In his first two games in the Everton dugout, Lampard set his team up in a 3-4-3 formation, allowing his wing-backs and three forwards the freedom to attack and express themselves.

He also experimented with this setup in the first