Lampard warns Everton they could face another relegation fight

Frank Lampard has warned Everton risk another relegation battle next season unless they get their act together this summer.

The Toffees secured their Premier League status in dramatic fashion on Thursday night, coming from two goals down to beat Crystal Palace 3-2.

It sparked wild scenes inside and outside Goodison Park, as fans invaded the pitch and celebrated long into the night, with Lampard and his players soaking up the acclaim.

But after the dust had settled, the Everton boss was quick to supply a dose of realism about his 16th-placed side's situation.

And Lampard highlighted the importance of pre-season and recruiting better than they have done in recent transfer windows if the Toffees want to move up the table next term.

Put to him that Everton were too big a club to be fighting relegation, Lampard replied: 'But is it? What right does Everton have to be Premier League safe every year and that will continue forever more?

'There are a lot of decisions that have to be made to make sure that happens. We need to try and find improvements. Nothing is a given.

'We were in this position because we deserved to be. It is a great, great feeling but the things we can do to make it better are things we have to work and effect.

'We want to take the club forward. It has to improve - we have to, I have to. I have to get to work in pre-season.

'Can we make the squad more balanced? I believe we can. It is important we look at it quickly. We have (director of football) Kevin Thelwell now, we have the board that are interested in trying to get the best out of this club.

'We don't want to be here next year but we understand if we don't make positive moves it is possible. It is important we work quickly.'

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