Everton news: Boost for Lampard as Jordan Pickford returns from injury; Calvert-Lewin edges closer
- Seb Sternik
- 29 September 2022
Everton manager Frank Lampard has been handed a major boost as England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is fit to return for the trip to Southampton.
Pickford sustained a thigh injury in the Merseyside derby draw at home to Liverpool on September 3 but, due to the international break, has missed only one match and is now ready to return.
When asked about Pickford's return from injury, Lampard told the media: "Yes. Good news."
The Toffees boss also revealed Dominic Calvert-Lewin is edging towards a return. He added: "We're considering [his involvement this weekend].
"With Dominic, we're working to make sure he comes back in the best fitness and strength for us, so we'll see on that one.
"I think any player that has injuries and this sort of recurrence of injuries he's had, it's difficult to deal with because players want to play and they're frustrated when they don't play.
"All you can ask for is that they keep doing the right things to get themselves in the best condition, whether it's rehabbing or when they get back on-pitch.
"We're always searching for the best way to get Dominic fit and keep him fit, because we know the level of player he is, as he's shown here previously."
Elsewhere, James Garner could force his way into Lampard's starting line-up for the first time since his deadline day move from Manchester United.
The player was in action for England U21s in midweek as the Three Lions picked up a 3-1 win over Germany.
"James, when he [first] came here, he wasn't fit - he declared that to me," explained Lampard. "The process of leaving Manchester United meant he hadn't trained at the top level.
"For West Ham, he was kind of fit, but then it's great that he played a game - and played so well - for England Under-21s.
"Now he's ready to go. He's impressed me in training very much, as a lad and as a player.
"That's why we brought him here - he has real potential for the now and the future."
