Pundit on Frank Lampard potentially quitting Everton as talks lined up
Noel Whelan has insisted struggling Everton boss Frank Lampard is “not ready” to become the next manager of England.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 44-year-old should concentrate on the “big challenge” of keeping the Merseysiders in the Premier League.
Football Insider revealed on Thursday (15 December) that Everton are braced for England interest in Lampard if Gareth Southgate opts to quit as England manager ahead of crunch FA talks.
The FA’s technical director John McDermott is believed to be an admirer of the Chelsea legend and is confident he has the profile that could fit the national team.
This news comes after Everton chiefs decided to stick by Lampard despite a poor run of form which leaves them just one point and one place above the Premier League relegation zone.
He was appointed manager of the Goodison Park outfit in January and helped steer the struggling Merseysiders clear of the drop in the 2021-22 season.
When asked if Lampard would be a worthy successor for Southgate, Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “No. I don’t think he’s ready for that role just yet.
“Even Gareth Southgate had to wait a long time for his opportunity. He progressed through the setup, working with the Under-21s before getting his chance.
“He’s had a long process of being in that international setup.
“Lampard has got a big challenge ahead to keep Everton in the Premier League and turn back the tide.
“He’s not ready. Maybe in a couple of years, with a bit more experience under his belt – it’s possible.
“I think if Gareth does go, which I hope he doesn’t, we need someone who is a bit more savvy.”
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