Everton have hit a bad run of form in the Premier League with three consecutive defeats in a row after losing to Newcastle United last night, and the lack of goals in the team is a clear contributor to the team's failure to pick up points.

With Richarlison making a move to Tottenham Hotspur and Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggling with injury issues there was no doubt that the goal contributions and quality in the forward line would decline at Goodison Park, but again the transfer window was an opportunity to eradicate that scenario.

Despite their efforts on Deadline Day, the Toffees were unable to secure the clinical finisher the side desperately needed but they did sign up Neal Maupay and Dwight McNeil, with the latter scoring eight goals and delivering two assists for Brighton and Hove Albion last season whilst McNeil offered just one assist to Burnley.

As a result, Everton failed to sign attack-minded players with an eye for goal that could really make a convincing difference when replacing the goal contributions of both Richarlison and an injury-prone Calvert-Lewin. That could ultimately cost them significantly if Frank Lampard is unable to identify solutions quickly.

The Toffees boss may consider waiting it out until the transfer window opens in the new year, but he could look closer to home in the Everton academy to promote a young player who can assist the team with their attacking threat.

One player who could be the perfect addition to the team is Mackenzie Hunt. He has the ability to add not just goals to the team, but he could also fill a James Rodriguez-shaped void with his playmaking abilities.

The 20-year-old rising star who was dubbed "fantastic" by former Manchester United squad member Kirk Hilton has been putting in several impressive performances in the EFL Trophy, and his most recent performance in the 6-0 win over Hartlepool gave an impressive glimpse of his talent.

During his 62-minute minute appearance, Hunt scored one goal and delivered one assist while making three key passes. Immediately you can begin to appreciate why he'd be able to replace Rodriguez's impressive set of attributes.

He won 50% of his duels and made one tackle as well, proving that his defensive talent is also worth keeping an eye on for Lampard.

The attacking midfielder has tallied up 59 appearances in the Everton U18 and U21 teams scoring five goals and delivering nine assists to his teammates which is an impressive record given his age. Unfortunately, he is yet to be given an opportunity in the first team.

Hunt signed a new deal to remain at Goodison Park back in June this year, and Kevin Thelwell spoke out on the player's contribution and experience to the youth teams after the youngster penned his new terms:

“Mackenzie progressed under the guidance of Paul Tait during their time together with our Under-18s and we are confident he will benefit once again from the experience and knowledge of Paul and his Under-21s coaching staff.”

With that being said, Lampard could add a fresh perspective to his team during the congested fixture schedule and may well unearth a diamond that can save the club millions when looking to strengthen their attacking options. In doing so, he could well unearth a Rodriguez-esque talent.