Everton manager Frank Lampard believes Conor Coady has earned his permanent contract.

The on-loan star has been outstanding for the Toffees since arriving from Wolves in the summer.

While his long-term stay is not yet official, Lampard admitted to reporters that Coady has more than earned a stay at the club.

He stated on transfers, “I don't want to talk about players leaving on the back of newspaper reports.

“Conor Coady has been brilliant since he's been here in every possible way. We'd like to make that permanent but it's not happening for now."

He then went on to praise youngster Anthony Gordon for his hard work during the midseason break: "What I've seen in Anthony in this period in Australia and when we got back was a real intensity and energy of the role we want him to play in the team. I'm looking forward to seeing his performances."