Despite an initially promising start in the Premier League this season, Everton have found themselves walking the tightrope yet again and after a poor run of form in their most recent outings in the top flight are now just one point outside of the bottom three in 17th.

The Toffees have picked up only 14 points out of a possible 45 in their first 15 fixtures, something Frank Lampard must improve if he is not only to keep the side safe inside the Premier League ahead of next season but also to keep hold of his job.

There has been wide speculation that the powers at Goodison Park have been looking at their options for potential managers to take over from the former Chelsea boss following the disappointing performances, although it might be slightly premature to put the sole blame on the manager.

Everton sold last season's top goal-scorer Richarlison to Tottenham Hotspur in the summer and with Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggling with numerous injury problems, it has left the side short in their attacking threat which has led to the side scoring the joint-second fewest number of goals in the Premier League this season so far.

Indeed, Lampard will potentially be given the opportunity in the January transfer window to seek out natural finishers who can increase the goal tally in the second half of the campaign, however, it's not just signing new players that require the club's attention.

After losing the Brazilian winger over the last transfer window, it's safe to say that Everton cannot afford to lose any more of their most experienced and talented players in the January window or beyond.

One player who has been subjected to a lot of interest is goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with Manchester United the most recent club said to be keen on acquire the services of the England number one.

This is an issue, not least because of his performances, but £110k-per-week long-serving star is out of contract in June 2024, leaving the club in a position where they must act fast to secure his future before more interest mounts and Pickford leaves for a better offer or for free in 18 months time.

The goalkeeper - who has been dubbed "faultless" by coach Alan Kelly - has been a standout performer for the Merseysiders this season with only Brentford's David Raya making more saves than the Everton man in the Premier League so far.

Out of his 60 saves, the 28-year-old has only conceded 17 with a 78% save success rate and has been successful in 86% of his run outs over 14 league performances.

With that being said, although Lampard will be focused on securing Conor Coady's future beyond his season-long loan at Goodison Park, the manager and the club could be heading for disaster if they don't lock down Pickford's future as well.