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“Energy”: Frank Lampard praises 18-year-old Everton gem who has “trained really well”

Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images
Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images
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Everton on Pre-Season Tour in the USA
Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images

Frank Lampard has been speaking to The Athletic about life at Everton, and he shared special praise for Stanley Mills.

What’s the story?

Well, the 44-year-old has been able to take a proper look at some of Everton’s best prospects during their tour of the United States, something that wasn’t possible in the thick of a relegation battle.

One prodigy who has caught the eye of Lampard is Mills, the son of Danny Mills.

The 18-year-old has travelled to the US with the first-team, and even played a part in the 2-0 defeat to Arsenal.

Speaking to The Athletic, Lampard said: “The reason Stan’s here is that he trained really well. One day we were looking for a player for training and the staff mentioned Stan. I know Danny, so had wanted to see Stan anyway. Straight away you could see he had talent and character. He brings energy and cover.”

The teenager has earned a chance to impress after scoring six goals in 30 appearances at youth level last season, while also providing four assists.

Arsenal v Everton - Pre-Season friendly
Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images

Lampard’s comments come after David Unsworth also heaped praise on Mills, following a phenomenal goal for the Under-23 side back in January.

The 48-year-old said: “Stan’s playing well and scoring goals and he just needs to keep going and stay fit. He’s got great finishing ability. He’s learning all the time. To play centrally was different for him and he did well. He’s a great lad and I love working with him.”

Stanley Mills can follow Anthony Gordon at Everton

In our view, Mills has the ideal role model to look up to at Goodison Park – Anthony Gordon.

The England Under-21 international burst onto the scene in the Premier League last season, with his fine displays attracting interest from Tottenham and Newcastle this summer.

Everton v Chelsea - Premier League 2
Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images

Crucially, both Mills and Gordon are wingers, so the 18-year-old should be able to take plenty of advice from Everton’s new No.10 about how to make an impact in the first-team.

With Lampard also at the helm – a man who is clearly talented when it comes to working with young players – we believe a strong foundation is in place for Mills to shine at Goodison Park.