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"We haven't kicked a ball in anger yet, let's see how well we compete against Chelsea. So I think any trepidation from the outside is fine, for Evertonians I would say let's see what we're going to do. "Other clubs are probably being told they're going to be in the European places, it means nothing at the minute. What we have done is bring in three players I'm very happy with, but I understand when I listen to the radio and people say we're probably going to be in a fight again, that's no problem.
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"If you come off a relegation battle and you lose a player of high value to the team on the pitch, I think it's understandable.
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Once the games start it throws you a million different things each week and that is where I am at I suppose. "They are all words at the minute and I have to go out and do it, but I am definitely excited about the challenge and I can see it pretty clearly. So I understand the responsibility and I feel like it is a good challenge and I am in a good place to do it. Lampard explained: "We had a barbecue the other day at Finch Farm and everybody was there from academy to women's team to all the teams and partners and staff and it gave me a real sense of what this club is and can be. READ MORE: Everton fans given vital message ahead of Chelsea coach welcome as new route planned READ MORE: 'We know what is coming' - Thomas Tuchel makes Everton fans admission and Frank Lampard claim With new faces arriving at Finch Farm over the course of the summer transfer window and with a tough season of football ahead for everyone at the club, the decision was made for everyone - from the Men's and Women's sides and their families right through to the Academy team - to come together for a barbecue as a strong reminder of the kind of club Everton are. Meanwhile, the Women's side are already gearing up for their WSL opener against Leicester City on 11th September. The Men's first team are preparing to take on Chelsea in their opening match of the 2022/23 campaign at Goodison Park on Saturday, with the hope that they can recreate the incredible atmosphere and result of a few months ago against the same opponent. Frank Lampard has opened up on a barbecue at Everton which has helped boost the unity across all squads at Finch Farm.
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