What Richarlison must to do for Frank Lampard to grant Everton wish

Richarlison has told Frank Lampard that his preferred position is No.9 but can there be a future for the Brazilian in the centre-forward position at Everton?

The 24-year-old said : “I had a long conversation with the manager this week and he asked me about my preferred position. It is number nine, partly because that is where I play for the national team.

“But I was very clear that I will give absolutely everything, wherever he wants me to play. I will do my best and honour the shirt and help him as much as possible, whether it is in the middle or out wide.

“My ambition is always to contribute to the team’s success, with goals and assists but also through hard work and running and tackling and occupying defenders.”

Richarlison’s attacking versatility has ensured that he has been able to operate not only as a winger – primarily cutting inside from the left flank – but also as a striker for both club and country.

The player pushed hard last summer to be allowed to go to Japan straight on the back of going the distance in Copa America with Brazil.

He recalled: “I had a fight there, right? I spent the whole day arguing with Everton, with the director.”

In the end, though, Richarlison would feel his efforts were vindicated as his five goals ensured he finished tournament top scorer enroute to securing an Olympic gold medal in Tokyo, and he returned to a hero’s welcome at Finch Farm.

During the competition in the Far East, the Blues ace operated both on the wing and spearheading the attack at different times, as Brazilian football journalist Rodrigo Calvozzo explained to the ECHO : “Even though he is offensive player, he is not always a scorer.

“He is expected to create offensive plays and he has shown himself capable