Everton: Frank Lampard 'desperate' over £40.5m 'nightmare'

Everton manager Frank Lampard ‘will be desperate’ for star striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin to return to form in the final months of the season, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Calvert-Lewin has struggled for form and fitness throughout 2021/22, but he could still play a big part in the Toffees’ fortunes between now and the end of May.

The England international – who is valued at £40.5m by Transfermarkt – had established himself as Everton’s talisman over the last couple of campaigns.

Teammate Richarlison is evidently one of Calvert-Lewin’s admirers, even comparing his aerial ability to five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.

“He must be a nightmare to play against, and he has an incredible leap on him like Cristiano Ronaldo,” said the Brazilian back in 2020.

However, Calvert-Lewin has been unable to make a significant contribution to the Goodison Park outfit this term, failing to find the back of the net since 28 August.

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After bagging a single goal in each of Everton’s opening three Premier League encounters, a series of quadricep problems ruled him out of action until the new year.

But Calvert-Lewin has looked a shadow of his former self upon his return and has now gone eight appearances in all competitions without scoring.

Everton moved three points clear of the relegation zone with a dramatic victory over Newcastle United on Thursday, with Calvert-Lewin providing a clever assist.

But O’Rourke believes Lampard will be eager for his first-choice forward to start chipping in with goals once again as he looks to guide the Merseysiders to safety.

He told GiveMeSport: “For these last few weeks of the season, I think Frank Lampard will be desperate