JAKARTA - Manager Frank Lampard has revealed Everton must remain calm in a bid to avoid relegation as upcoming league games against Newcastle United and Leeds United are unlikely to end their fortunes.
Everton, who have been in the top flight for 68 years, appointed Lampard as Rafa Benitez's successor last week to help them avoid the red zone. The Toffees are currently ranked 16th after 20 matches or four points above the relegation zone.
"We have to stay calm because we still have a long way to go... I came here with 18 games left. So hanging everything on these two games is the wrong attitude," Lampard told reporters ahead of the game against hosts Newcastle. .
Everton will be without defender Ben Godfrey until March with a hamstring injury in Saturday's FA Cup fourth round win against fellow Premier League side Brentford.
Lampard has also defended new signing Dele Alli after being criticized by former England manager Glenn Hoddle for his choice of outfit when welcomed at Goodison Park following his move from Tottenham Hotspur.
Lampard said he would never smother the personalities of his players, pointing out: "I don't care what car he drives, what clothes he wears, as long as I have players who come to training every day, want to improve every day... era modern has shifted, has changed."
Everton face relegation side Newcastle who are second from bottom with 15 points from 21 games.
"I'm not making up, as manager of this big club, I will always be at the forefront," Newcastle boss Eddie Howe told reporters on Monday.
"Frank has a proven philosophy against Brentford. They have a strong team so we have to do our best to win."
Newcastle brought in five players in January to increase their chances of staying in the elite league. Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood will field against Watford and Leeds United, while Matt Targett, Dan Burn and Bruno Guimaraes are awaiting their debuts.
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