Everton will return to action in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon when they make the long trip to the south coast for their clash with Southampton, and Frank Lampard has revealed a huge boost ahead of the game.
What's the latest?
The Toffees boss took to his pre-match press conference to confirm that Jordan Pickford will be available for selection at St Marys.
Lampard gave a short response when asked about whether the goal-keeper is available this weekend:
"Yes, good news!"
Lampard will be buzzing
There is no doubt that Lampard will be absolutely buzzing to have his starting keeper back in contention to start against Ralph Hasenhuttl's side on Saturday, as he has been one of the standout performers in the team over the season so far.
The England number one picked up a thigh injury in the Merseyside Derby after putting on an outstanding performance against Everton's bitter rivals, which led to him being awarded Man of the Match for his eight important saves to hold Liverpool to a draw over the Goodison Park clash.
Pickford has been solid for the Toffees this season which has contributed to their current unbeaten run in the Premier League with an 81% successful save rate, 6.8 long balls and 1.3 clearances per game over his six appearances so far.
The Everton boss lavished praise on Pickford hailing him "superb" following his performance against Liverpool:
"Superb,"
“He gets scrutiny because he’s England’s number one, I understand that but when he delivers like he did today everyone understands why he’s England’s number one and why we appreciate him so much here.”
Everton haven't lost a game in their last five and Lampard will be hoping that the improved confidence and resilience in the team can help them continue to pick up results in the top flight, with the side currently comfortably 13th in the league table at present.
Depending on the results of the weekend Everton could be in a fantastic position if they pick up all three points from their away fixture and could even break into the top half of the table which would be a huge achievement when you consider their relegation troubles last season in the Premier League.