Frank Lampard to Everton takes leap forward with exciting first signing close – report

Frank Lampard is reportedly now the sole candidate to take charge at Everton, with the Toffees board hopeful of confirming him as manager in the coming days.

The former Chelsea boss has been out of work for just over a year now, having left Stamford Bridge last January. Since then, he’s reportedly eyed various jobs, including Norwich, but is yet to get back into the game. Now it seems his wait is set to end by being named as successor to Rafa Benitez.

The Toffees were seemingly intent on appointing Vitor Pereira. However, following supporter protests, together with a U-turn by Farhad Moshiri, it seems Everton will instead pursue Lampard.

Former Porto coach Pereira, meanwhile, admits the fan protests about his potential appointment left him feeling hurt.

“Of course [it upsets me]. This is the first time in my career I have seen this kind of thing, I’ve never had these comments about me.

“I think these critics are not directed at me. It is the environment now as the club is not in a good position and the supporters are passionate – and this passion is the power of the club.

“They don’t know me, my work or me as a person or my CV. I don’t take it as a personal attack. I work in a lot of countries, different clubs, at different levels, and we got several titles but before you start work you don’t know the person and you cannot judge.

“But I understand the feelings of the supporters because, in the last few years, the club didn’t get good results and it is normal they are not happy.”

When quizzed on the turmoil surrounding the club, Pereira added: “This is something I cannot control.”

And with his prospective appointment seemingly doomed to failure before it begins, a move for Lampard looks on the cards.

As such, The