Frank Lampard resisted the temptation to speak with Rafa Benitez or Carlo Ancelotti before becoming manager of Everton.

The 43-year-old has taken the reins at Goodison Park having been unemployed since his dismissal at Chelsea in January 2021.

"I didn't speak to them," Lampard said at his first press conference as manager. "I've got huge respect for both of them.

"I'm particularly close to Carlo because I worked with him for a certain period, and we kept a relationship after that. He's an absolute gentlemen and I will catch up with him.

"But I didn't want to have any preconceived ideas about the club."