Lampard Defends Alli After Criticism Over Choice Of Clothes At Everton Presentation

Frank Lampard has leapt to the defence of Dele Alli after his new signing came in for criticism over his choice of clothes during his Everton presentation.

Lampard Defends Alli After Criticism Over Choice Of Clothes At Everton Presentation

Alli, who joined Everton on a two-and-a-half-year contract on transfer deadline day from Spurs, was unveiled at Goodison Park alongside Donny Van De Beek during the FA Cup win over Brentford at the weekend.

However, Alli’s choice of attire caused a stir and former England manager Glen Hoddle said he looked like he had been ‘dragged off the streets’ while Scottish pundit Alan Brazil also took aim at the former MK Dons’ star’s use of a Rolls-Royce.

Lampard says he will have no problems with Alli’s fashion sense if he produces the goods on the pitch.

"I've heard some of the reaction and I have a lot of respect for everyone who has spoken, ex-players, people who I respect and admire in Ally McCoist, Alan Brazil, Glenn Hoddle - I would never go against their word," said Lampard.

"But when you are working closely with players and working with Dele, my personal opinion is that 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, 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 is in front of me.

"And what I've just mentioned, that Dele and Donny [van de Beek] 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."