Rio Ferdinand confirms what Danny van de Beek told him about Everton move
Rio Ferdinand chatted with Donny van de Beek before his loan move from Manchester United to Everton.
Rio Ferdinand has spoken about how Frank Lampard influenced Donny van de Beek’s choice to join Everton.
The Dutchman joined the Blues on loan for the rest of the season, beating out Patrick Vieria’s Crystal Palace.
Van de Beek had a strong reputation around Europe as a result of his achievements with Ajax, but he has battled for playing time since joining Manchester United in 2020.
Ferdinand has revealed what Van de Beek told him about his decision to join Everton, having been in touch with the midfielder since an interview in September.
“I spoke to him about it, and obviously I think Frank Lampard was a major driving for him, but Patrick Vieira was also a big driver for him because he respects both,” the former United defender stated on his FIVE podcasts.
“I think being able to live at home in Manchester, not having to move, and his girlfriend being pregnant were all things that I thought played a role.”
“Also, I believe the most important thing for Donny van de Beek is to play games, but equally important is where he will be played.”
“If you expect him to play similar positions to those he played for Manchester United, which was perhaps a little more defensive at times, you’re not going to get the best out of this player.”
“You have to give him permission to go forward, permission to assault the box, and judging by what he did at Ajax, he was allowed to get in the box and given free rein to get in there and timing his runs to get chances to score goals.”
Van de Beek was a key member of the Ajax team that reached the Champions League semi-finals in 2019, but he has not had the same level of success since arriving at Old Trafford.
Bruno Fernandes’ later arrival at United limited the 24-year-prospects old’s despite his ability to maneuver between center-midfield and a more advanced number 10 role.
Ferdinand believes Van de Beek would prosper under Everton manager Frank Lampard despite having only four starts in all competitions.
“He knows how to score, how to play one and two-touch in progressive, possession-based game,” Ferdinand added.
“And I believe that in his short time as a manager, Frank Lampard has tried to make his side play football in a way that someone like Donny van de Beek could be able to flourish.” I’m hoping everything works out for both of them.”
