Frank Lampard assesses Donny van de Beek's 'difficult' debut for Everton

Frank Lampard has given his assessment on Manchester United loanee Donny van de Beek's 'difficult' debut for Everton.

The Dutchman was given half an hour to try and impress his new boss but it wasn't to be for the midfielder as the Toffees slipped to a 3-1 defeat at fellow strugglers Newcastle United.

An own goal by Mason Holgate followed by strikes in the second half by Ryan Fraser and Kieran Trippier overturned the Merseyside club's 1-0 lead.

Speaking about his new signing on Friday, Lampard told the press: "Donny, again I was affected in terms that it was the third sub, he came on at a difficult time and I thought he showed some really nice bits of midfield play and his comfort on the ball.

"He’s shown that in training as well.

"I’m pleased that one’s out of the way for them (Van de Beek and Dele Alli) personally and they’ll get better for it."

Van de Beek struggled for game time at United in the first half of this season having made just eight Premier League appearances.

Manchester Evening News understands that the 24-year-old became 'upset' with his playing time and pushed for a move away from Old Trafford in January, a request which was granted on deadline day.

Manchester United return to action on Saturday when they host Southampton at lunchtime while Everton host Leeds at 3pm.

Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.