At least he didn’t manage the club’s biggest rivals
New Everton manager Frank Lampard has jokingly apologised to the Toffees fanbase for his infamous celebration against the club in the FA Cup final in 2009.
The former England midfielder scored a stunning winner from outside the area for Chelsea in a 2-1 triumph over Everton in the 2009 FA Cup final.
Following his 72nd minute strike, Lampard danced around the corner flag in tribute to his dad, who delivered the same iconic celebration for West Ham in a 1980 FA Cup semi-final replay.
In his first interview in the Everton hotseat, Lampard was reminded about his family’s FA Cup history with the club – with the ex-Chelsea man joking that he’s got some making up to do at Goodison Park.
He said: “I have got a lot of making up to do on that front – and I do apologise.
“With my dad, I had grown up hearing all the stories – and it was about the only time he scored in his career. Obviously he broke Everton fans’ hearts at the time, a long time ago.
“I scored in the Cup final. It was one of those things as a player. I went up against Everton a lot and I had some good days and bad days.
“But I am here to absolutely represent the club and I will try and make up for those moments.”
Try to stop him on his right foot, he'll just use his left 🚀
What a strike in the 2009 Final from Frank Lampard 💥#EmiratesFACup @ChelseaFC pic.twitter.com/UX67zSUe1i
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) June 20, 2021
Everton are yet to appoint a director of football following the recent departure of Marcel Brands, but Lampard’s first task will be to galvanise a group of players who have looked fragmented and disinterested over the last few months.
“Management is not just the tactical side – it’s how you make the squad and individuals feel,” the 43-year-old added.
“I will try to be myself, very personable and close to the players, and set up a team to play good football and win games.
“I will always try to be open and communicate and show the fans exactly how hard I will work – and we will do everything possible to achieve those long-term visions.”
Lampard’s first game as Everton manager comes at home against Brentford on Saturday in the FA Cup fourth round.
Related links:
- Ashley Cole to join Everton staff as Frank Lampard’s assistant manager
- Frank Lampard to be named new Everton manager on two-and-a-half-year deal
- Frank Lampard admits he ‘felt terrible’ over comments he made about Paul Pogba
