The importance of being Frank

The absurdity of the situation Everton found themselves in was only matched by the absurdity of Lampard's oblivious regard for the decisive role he played in putting them there. 

Everton manager Frank Lampard reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton at Emirates Stadium. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Frank Lampard was dressed to go out last Thursday night. Not “out out”, just out. Not quite the architect of the catastrophic abyss Everton Football Club found themselves staring into ahead of the visit of Crystal Palace, Lampard was, at the very least, its interior designer. 

Regardless of his role in the drama, he was dressed like a man who was heading straight down the Cock and Bottle for a few swift halves and a couple of super splits after the game, whatever the outcome. Eschewing both the smart suit and the tracksuit, he confidently sported blue jeans, a cardigan, and a pair of funky trainers.