Everton are almost certain to sack Frank Lampard if he fails to maintain the Goodison Park outfit's Premier League status ahead of next season, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Toffees are at serious risk of dropping into the Championship and have headed into the international break sitting just three points clear of the relegation zone.

What's the latest news involving Lampard?

Lampard was appointed as Everton's new manager on deadline day of the January transfer window, with the 43-year-old penning a two-and-a-half year contract.

The Merseyside outfit turned to the former Chelsea chief having opted to sack Rafa Benitez just six-and-a-half months after he moved into the Goodison Park dugout.

But it has emerged that Everton added a break clause to Lampard's deal, meaning they are able to part company with the ex-England international midfielder at the end of the season without paying a penny in compensation.

The Toffees' latest blow came on Sunday, when Premier League rivals Crystal Palace romped home to a 4-0 win to deny Everton a trip to Wembley for the FA Cup semi-finals.

Lampard was outspoken when it came to criticising his charges after the Selhurst Park defeat, with him questioning the Toffees' mentality.

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What has Dean Jones said about Lampard?

Jones believes there is a serious possibility that Lampard's Everton reign will prove to be a short one.

The transfer insider feels the Toffees are already mulling over whether to dispense of the manager's services at the end of the campaign, when the break clause can be activated.

But he feels failing to remain in the Premier League would ramp up the chances of Everton parting company with Lampard.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "I think, if they go down, it's almost definite that Frank Lampard won't be the manager anymore."

How have Everton performed since Lampard's appointment?

Lampard inherited a side low on confidence, having recorded just one Premier League win since seeing off Norwich City in September.

But Everton's form is still not the best despite the change of management, with the Toffees recording two victories in seven top flight fixtures under Lampard's guidance.

Ahead of travelling to face West Ham United after the international break, the Merseyside giants have suffered six defeats in 10 fixtures since Lampard replaced Benitez in the dugout.

Everton's defensive record clearly needs to improve as Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has claimed their back four is ‘Championship level’ and the Toffees have a ‘real chance’ of being relegated from the top flight for the first time since 1951.