Everton had a rather disappointing previous Premier League season last time out, particularly from a defensive point of view.

In addition to conceding 66 goals in total across their 38 games played, only Leeds United (219) and Norwich City (212) faced more shots on target than the Toffees (184).

One figure in Everton's squad that could partly be blamed for the club's poor defensive displays last season is Michael Keane.

Despite making more clearances (149) and interceptions (62) than any other Everton player in the league, the Englishman still made two errors that led to an opponent's shot at goal as well as making fewer blocks than Seamus Coleman and Anthony Gordon, as well as fewer tackles than Coleman, Gordon, Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure.

Last season was not the only time the centre-back has proved to be a rather disappointing figure in defence as his performance in England's 2-1 defeat against the Czech Republic in 2019 was described as "dreadful" by journalist Graeme Bailey on Twitter.

With some weeks left in the current summer transfer window, this could give Frank Lampard the chance to finally get rid of the 29-year-old and bring in a suitable replacement.

One player that has been mentioned with a move to Goodison Park recently that could force Keane out of the club is Levi Colwill.

As a product of Chelsea's youth academy, the defender has made 46 appearances for the west London club across their youth sides.

The 19-year-old completed his first loan spell away from his parent club last season by helping Huddersfield Town reach the Championship play-off final.

With 29 Championship appearances to his name, the youngster ended the campaign with more interceptions (44) and the second-highest number of successful tackles (36) under his belt at the Yorkshire club.

This backs up why football talent scout, Jacek Kulig, described Colwill's season with the Terriers as "outrageous."

Moving forward, should Lampard feel the need to get rid of Keane this summer, using his connections with Chelsea could give the Toffees the advantage when it comes to potentially securing a deal for the young defender and seeing if he has what it takes to be a regular Premier League figure.

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