Lampard blown away by £9m Everton man's display v Manchester United

By Tom Avery

Everton boss Frank Lampard was delighted with Fabian Delph’s performance in the priceless 1-0 win against Manchester United.

The 32-year-old, who was the pivot to Everton’s midfield, was a key cog in the Toffees’ battling performance and ensured that the team’s vulnerable defence was well-screened and protected.

Following four months out with a thigh injury, the England international was back in the starting line-up for Everton’s biggest game of the season.

It was Delph’s seventh appearance of the season and just his fourth start of the campaign.

The former Manchester City man lasted 84 minutes before being replaced by Abdoulaye Doucoure. It’s the most minutes the left-footed midfielder has played in a game this season.

Lampard was delighted with Delph’s display and his return to fitness at such a crucial time of the season.

Speaking to the club’s website, the former Chelsea boss said: “We’ve missed Fabian, it’s something that goes unnoticed.

“Every club and every manager will bemoan it – we have injuries and problems.

“If you find yourself without one or two defensive midfielders for whatever reason, it’s tough. 

“Delphy gave us a sense of calm and his positioning was excellent in terms of filling in if one of the centre-backs got dragged out. He does those things naturally. He was great today and now he can get his well-deserved rest.”

Delph, whose contract at the blue half of Merseyside expires at the end of June, made three tackles, two interceptions and six clearances.

The £9m (Sky Sports) signing from the reigning Premier League champions will be hoping to stay injury free for the remainder of the campaign and play a crucial part in guiding the Goodison Park side to safety.