For Everton, finishing 17th or higher is the only show in town

There are patches of blue sky ahead for Frank Lampard and his staff. But the progress that can be made this summer and beyond is governed by survival.

Having his say: Everton manager Frank Lampard may not have a squad packed with players of his own choosing but he has assembled a deep support structure. Martin Rickett/PA Wire.

Providing a commentary on Everton at this point in the season, indeed at this point in Everton’s future, is a little like writing a book review of Agatha Christie’s “And then there were none” before reading the final chapters.

It is not hyperbole to suggest that the very notion of what Everton will be as a football club in the future rests on the remaining seven games of the season, starting with Sunday’s derby match at Anfield.