Everton icon Duncan Ferguson is 'in pole position' to be appointed as the club's next manager if Frank Lampard is sacked by the Goodison Park hierarchy at the end of the season, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Lampard was only unveiled as the Toffees' boss on deadline day of the January transfer window, but there are doubts over whether he will still be in the dugout by the time next term gets underway.

What's the latest news involving Ferguson?

Despite the managerial alteration in the early stages of 2022, Ferguson has remained at Goodison Park as a member of Lampard's backroom staff.

In fact, Lampard's appointment came after Ferguson had been placed in caretaker charge following the decision to sack Rafa Benitez just six-and-a-half months into his reign.

The 50-year-old was unable to lead Everton to victory on that occasion as Aston Villa condemned his side to a 1-0 defeat.

But it was not the first time that Ferguson had been at the helm on a temporary basis as he also oversaw four fixtures in 2019, picking up a win over Chelsea along the way.

Ferguson is revered as a Toffees legend after scoring 68 goals in 260 appearances for the club and also getting his hands on the FA Cup.

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What has Dean Jones said about Ferguson?

Jones understands that Ferguson is the frontrunner for the Everton job if Lampard is axed at the end of the season.

The transfer insider believes the Scotsman is keen to take charge on a permanent basis after two previous caretaker spells.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "From what I'm told, if they did go for a new manager, Duncan Ferguson will be in pole position.

"It'll almost be his if he wants it. I know that he's very highly-regarded, he knows the squad, has been around the set-up and he fancies it.

"I think that if Lampard were to go, Duncan Ferguson would be the favourite to be the next Everton manager."

Is Lampard likely to get sacked?

Everton are currently two points adrift of Premier League safety, meaning relegation to the Championship remains a distinct possibility.

Lampard has only claimed four top flight wins in 13 attempts since taking charge and securing the Toffees' top flight safety is likely to be crucial if he wants to remain at Goodison Park.

Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that there is a break clause in Lampard's contract which can be exercised by Everton's key decision-makers at the end of the campaign.