Lampard outlines transfer philosophy as Everton boss looks to avoid ‘selfish characters’

Everton boss Frank Lampard insists he is looking to bring “good people” to the club this summer as “selfish characters can be the downfall of any team”.

The Toffees narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League last term and Lampard is eager to avoid a similarly excruciating battle against the drop in 2022/23.

Are you still here? One forgotten or unshiftable player for each Premier League club

They have only made one signing so far this summer, bringing in James Tarkowski on a free transfer following the expiry of his Burnley contract.

Lampard has opened up on the club’s transfer philosophy, discussing his relationship with the board and director of football Kevin Thelwell.

“I have a big input with transfers and that’s important for me,” Lampard told The Athletic.

“I’m very understanding of recruitment teams, an owner who supplies the money, the chairman’s position and Kevin’s position. I try to be aligned with everyone. I have my strong opinions on which direction and which type of player we need and from then on it’s a close, constant dialogue.

DC MN

Arrived and ready for tomorrow's game at @allianzfield. @Clarity_BT pic.twitter.com/syShdud6W7

— Everton (@Everton) July 20, 2022

“I’m very much in the middle of that. It felt quite clear in my interview (for the job) that decisions are going to be well thought through.

“Kevin and I are big on personality,” the Everton manager continued. “We want to bring in players of a good profile and you look at age there too because you can’t be too young or too old.

“You want good people. Selfish characters can be the downfall of any team. James Tarkowski is a well-spoken leader and straight away gives off a professional tone. Character in the dressing room is huge and the