Frank Lampard makes Donny van de Beek transfer admission at Everton

Donny van de Beek's future is in his own hands as he assesses his options at the end of the season, Frank Lampard said.

Everton worked hard to agree a late transfer window swoop for him in January, the midfielder a last-minute loan arrival as Lampard sought to strengthen his squad. He has since spoken highly of the player despite injury and illness limiting him to just six appearances.

Speculation over van de Beek's long-term destination persists, with parent club Manchester United set for a summer overhaul under their new manager. That appointment, Erik ten Hag, managed van de Beek at Ajax - leading to suggestions he could help revive the 25-year-old's Old Trafford career.

This week the player 'liked' a series of posts by Ajax as they confirmed ten Hag's departure on Instagram. And the new boss is known to be a fan of his, inferring he may be given an opportunity next season rather than being allowed to explore interest elsewhere.

Asked about the player's situation ahead of the Merseyside Derby, which van de Beek is set to miss through injury, Lampard said: "We worked hard in quick time one or two days before the deadline and we were really pleased to get him. Unfortunately in recent weeks Donny wasn't so well, then he had an injury then he had a baby - not that that affected us, it's great news for him - so we just need to get the most we can out of Donny in these next seven games and then of course the options are all in his hands. He is a Manchester United player at that point.”