JOE COLE is backing ex-Chelsea pal Frank Lampard to ‘definitely keep Everton up’ this season for three key reasons.
Lampard, 43, was confirmed as Rafa Benitez’s successor last month – a year after he was sacked by the Blues.
And ‘Super Frank’ got off to a flying start by dumping Brentford out of the FA Cup with a 4-1 win.
However, Lampard’s first Premier League game did not go to plan as the Toffees lost 3-1 at relegation-threatened Newcastle.
And the result means Everton themselves are now just two points above the drop zone.
But player-turned-pundit Cole believes Lamps will keep Everton in the top flight for three reasons.
Firstly, Cole points to the backing Lampard will receive from Everton owner Farhad Moshiri, who showed his trust in the new project by moving for Donny van de Beek and Dele Alli on deadline day.
Secondly, Lampard is sure to have the strong backing of Everton fans after they turned on ex-Liverpool gaffer Rafa Benitez.
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And finally, Cole reckons Everton’s players have been underperforming all season and can only get better under Lampard’s guidance.
Cole told Coral: “The Everton job is a great opportunity for Frank, one of the best. You will never get a better chance to take Everton up the table.
“They still have an owner who is committed and will spend money, the fans hated the previous manager so will get behind you, and the players have been underperforming but will get better.
“He will definitely keep them up. Give it a couple of weeks and results will begin to turn and I don’t think they will be in a relegation battle.
“Then next season he can really get to work with backing from the owner and a new stadium on the horizon. The future looks so bright.”
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