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Everton owner backs Lampard ahead of crucial relegation tussle

12 Jan 2023

Premier League - Manchester City v Everton

Majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri tells fans it is time for stability before Southampton fixture

Everton’s majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri has backed manager Frank Lampard ahead of an important match in the club’s fight to stay in the Premier League.

After avoiding relegation late last season, 18th-placed Everton face bottom club Southampton at Goodison Park on Saturday after a run of only two points from a possible 18.

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1-2

SOU

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In an open letter to the Everton Fans’ Forum, Moshiri supports Lampard and the club directors.

“I have faith in the work being done not only by our manager, but our Director of Football and our board of directors,” the open letter said.

“That faith is based on my knowledge of the depth and quality of work being done both at Finch Farm and the Royal Liver Building - and of the plan that is in place.

“I am confident that we have skilled, experienced and focused professionals at all levels of the Club. We are all agreed that our current league position must and will improve.”

Everton are building a £500m, 52,888-seat stadium on the banks of the River Mersey that will be ready in the 2024/25 season. Moshiri cited this in defence of his ownership, adding that while change of club personnel had taken place in search of improved performances, stability was now required.

“In almost seven years since my arrival at the Club, I have significantly increased my investment and our new stadium has become reality,” his letter said.

“We regularly review our performance and initiate change where we feel that the Club falls short of standard. This has meant that we have seen turnover in managers, Directors of Football and several board members, but always as we have striven to achieve success.

"Whilst, in virtually every instance, change has been supported and encouraged by fans, stability must be the key to progression.”