Frank Lampard assesses Everton’s chances of Premier League relegation after Newcastle loss

Frank Lampard unveiled at Everton

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Frank Lampard dismissed claims that Everton are in a relegation battle after stumbling to a 3-1 defeat against Newcastle United on Tuesday evening. The result leaves the Toffees hovering three points above the relegation zone, made more concerning by the momentum of Norwich City and the Magpies behind them. 

Both sets of fans came into the game at St James’ Park filled with optimism, the home side due to their raft of new signings, and the travelling brigade because of their new manager and a couple of fresh faces of their own. 

Within two first-half minutes, Newcastle’s Jamaal Lascelles and Everton’s Mason Holgate traded own goals to tie up the scores at 1-1. 

But Eddie Howe’s side found an extra gear after the break, firstly through Ryan Fraser, before a superb Kieran Trippier free-kick raised the roof on Tyneside. 

The result was a sobering crash back to reality for Lampard, who had kicked off his tenure with an encouraging 4-1 FA Cup victory over Brentford on Saturday. 

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“It’s disappointing for the result,” he said.

“Early injuries didn’t help us. It was a tough game to have as we have only been together for a week.

“We lost two big players in Demarai Gray and Yerry Mina and things changed. The main thing for me was how we dropped off in the game.

“At the weekend, the confidence went up but you could see how quickly that confidence went back down.

“We have taken it on the chin and not let our heads drop. We have to solve that because it is a concern.

“The confidence and belief has to be built and worked on the training ground. It needs to change quickly because we want to get results.

“It is just words to say that [we are in a relegation battle].

“Newcastle have been in it all season and had ups and downs.

“The only focus is on Leeds next and take every game step by step.”

Toffees fans will also have been keen to sign deadline day duo Dele Alli and Donny van de Beek in action. 

Both came off the bench, and while there was the occasional flash of early chemistry and natural ability, both still face a long road to regain match sharpness. 

Another huge game awaits Lampard and his new side on Saturday when they host Leeds United, who sit directly above them in the Premier League table. 

While the former Chelsea captain dismissed talk of a relegation battle, the prospect of collecting zero points from Leeds and the Magpies may tell its own story. 

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