Everton manager Frank Lampard has outlined what needs to come together for Fabian Delph to extend his stay at the club beyond this summer.
The 32-year-old midfielder joined the Blues from Manchester City in July 2019 in a deal worth £8.5million with the potential to rise to £10million with add ons.
However, injuries have blighted the England international’s time at Goodison Park and he’s featured in just 40 of the 129 games played by Everton since he signed, including 10 in 2021/22.
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With Delph’s current contract due to expire on June 30, Lampard was asked about the prospects of keeping him on next term and said: “He knows how I feel about him. It’s a decision that’s one between firstly him, his decision and what he wants, secondly me and thirdly the club and how that comes together and now’s not the time for that one.”
Delph has featured in four of Everton’s last five matches though – a period in which they remain unbeaten while he’s been on the pitch – and Lampard acknowledges his presence has been a significant boost in their efforts to avoid relegation.
He said: “Delphy has shown in his return to the team and return to fitness that you can’t underestimate experience, quality, a football brain, the calmness he brings on the pitch and effort – everything.
“He’s been great for us. We’ve had big injuries this year. It does affect things no matter what you say because you want to rely on big players and that’s what Delphy is.”
