Rio Ferdinand has discussed Frank Lampard’s influence on Donny van de Beek’s decision to join Everton.
The Dutchman signed for the Blues on loan for the remainder of the season, beating competition from Patrick Vieria’s Crystal Palace side.
Van de Beek forged a formidable reputation across Europe after his performances with Ajax, but has struggled for game time since joining Manchester United in 2020.
Ferdinand has shared what Van de Beek told him about his choice to join Everton, having maintained contact with the midfielder since interviewing him in September .
READ MORE: In search of Tony Hibbert - the Everton enigma who wants to be left alone
READ MORE: Frank Lampard is about to unleash new Everton attacking plan after two signings
“I spoke to him over this deal, and obviously I think Frank Lampard was a big driver, but also Patrick Vieira was a big driver for him because he respects both,” the former United defender said on his FIVE podcast .
“I think being able to live at home still in Manchester, not having to move, his girlfriend’s pregnant as well, these are factors that I thought played a part as well.
“Also, I think the important thing for Donny van de Beek, yes is to play games, but as important is where he’s going to be played.
“If you’re going to ask him to play the similar roles he played for Man United which is maybe a little more defensive at times, then you’re not going to get the best out of this player.
“You have to give him licence to go forward, licence to attack the box, and judging by what he did at Ajax, he was allowed to get in the box, and he had free rein to get in there and time his runs to get opportunities to score goals.”
Van de Beek played a crucial role in the Ajax side that reached the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2019, but has not enjoyed similar success since arriving at Old Trafford.
Able to switch between centre-midfield and a more advanced number 10 role, Bruno Fernandes’ subsequent arrival at United ultimately restricted the 24-year-old’s opportunities.
After being restricted to just four starts across all competitions, Ferdinand has backed Van de Beek to thrive under Everton boss Frank Lampard .
“He knows how to score, he knows how to play one and two-touch in progressive, possession-based football,” Ferdinand continued.
“And I think Frank Lampard, in his short time as a manager, has tried to make his teams play football the way that someone like Donny van de Beek might be able to flourish. I hope it works for both of them.”
