Everton must desperately offload "tireless" £48k-p/w outcast, Lampard doesn't rate him - opinion

The free transfer of Andros Townsend to Everton was viewed at the start of the season as “good business” due to his ability to whip in dangerous crosses for Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Under Rafael Benitez, he also became a goal threat, scoring seven goals in his first 21 games in all competitions and laying on three assists so far this season.

However, since Frank Lampard has taken over as manager on Merseyside, the former Tottenham winger has been left on the bench in four out of the last ten games, starting just three of the six matches in which he has appeared in. One of those came in the FA Cup against National League side Boreham Wood last week.

It’s clear that the Chelsea legend doesn’t rate the experienced 30-year-old as highly as the likes of Anthony Gordon, and with Townsend earning a wage of £48k-p/w, it would make sense for Everton to sell him this summer for a juicy profit while they still can.

Valued at £6.3m by Transfermarkt, he would be an excellent addition for a newly-promoted side with cash to burn on Premier League-ready players, having been a regular feature in the top flight since 2013 along with earning 13 England caps, scoring three goals.

Despite not having too much game-time in recent weeks, statistically Townsend has still been one of the best crossers in the game this season, ranking in the top 1% among wingers in Europe’s top five leagues and continental competitions for completed crosses per 90 with 0.90.

His efforts when helping on defence has also been excellent, earning him praise from journalist Dan Cook, who described him as “absolutely tireless” after a game for Crystal Palace last season, with him ranking in the top 9% for tackles per 90 (2.09), top 10% for successful