The bond between the Everton supporters and players that Frank Lampard had rebuilt has already ‘gone now’, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Lampard’s arrival at the end of January initially appeared to transform the bitter atmosphere that had engulfed Goodison Park under former manager Rafael Benitez, but that feeling of goodwill was short-lived.

What is the latest news involving Everton?

Benitez’s appointment last summer was met with instant protests by certain sections of the Everton fan base due to his previous stint with local rivals Liverpool.

However, a run of just one defeat from their opening seven Premier League games bought the Spanish tactician some time to try and win his doubters over.

Unfortunately for Benitez, though, he was unable to do that and was dismissed after just six-and-a-half months at the helm following a run of one win in 13 fixtures.

Fans had started to bring banners to games in protest during Benitez’s final few weeks in charge, and the former Real Madrid and Inter boss departed with the Toffees sitting in 15^th position in the top-flight table.

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It seemed as though Lampard’s arrival as his successor was set to breathe new life in Everton’s stuttering campaign after an opening victory against Brentford in the FA Cup was followed up by a 3-0 win over Leeds United in the league.

Nevertheless, a defeat to Newcastle was sandwiched between those positive results, and since the Leeds game, the Merseysiders have lost four consecutive Premier League games.

What has Jones said about Everton?

After Wolves ran out 1-0 winners at Goodison Park last time out, the home crowd booed their players off the pitch in dismay, a reaction Lampard said he understood.

But Jones believes the important connection between the first team and the supporters in the stand has already been broken once again.

In an exclusive interview, he told GiveMeSport: “Lampard had rebuilt the bond between the team and the fans, and at the weekend, that seems to have gone now.”

Where do Everton need to improve?

Although Everton’s issues are extensive, it’s clear that their main struggles are in the final third of the pitch.

Star striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin hasn’t found the back of the net since 28 August through injury and a lack of form, while Demarai Gray is the club’s top scorer in the league with a meagre tally of five goals.

Everton’s Premier League goal drought has now gone on for over 360 minutes after they failed to score in their last four outings, highlighting the area Lampard needs to target for improvement most.