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Everton manager Lampard leaps to defence of Dele Alli after Hoddle criticism

Everton manager Frank Lampard has defended Dele Alli after Glenn Hoddle criticised the midfielder for his choice of attire for his unveiling at Goodison Park.

Lampard says he won't shackle the personalities of his players, including new signing Alli.

He said: "I don't care what car he drives, what clothes he wears, as long as I get a lad that comes to training every day, wants to improve every day, respects the club and respects his team-mates and then produces and gives everything to produce.

"The modern day has moved on, it's changed, we all have to be aware of that, and I'm not hitting back at any observation because everyone is allowed their own opinion, but I can only deal with what's in front of me.

"And what I've just mentioned, that Dele and Donny are both great lads, I mean it.

"Maybe Donny wears an overcoat that is longer than Dele wears, and he has a different type of jacket, but it doesn't bother me.

"As long as they produce on the pitch then I'm very happy. Everyone has their own individual personality and to try to handcuff or restrict that I think could be detrimental.

"As long as the players have the right behaviours when it comes to football and doing the right things I have no worries."

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Freddie Taylor

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