Chelsea’s Lampard hoping to secure first team spot
Frank Lampard is hoping to retain his place in the Chelsea starting XI after being called back in for the midweek draw at Valencia.
The England international started alongside John Obi Mikel and Ramires in the middle and the veteran made sure to put in a good performance as he strives to get rid of the media speculation regarding his short-term future.
The 33 year-old has become subject to a mess of criticism arguing that he may not be good enough to start for the Londoners anymore with younger players ready to step in.
Blues manager, Andre Villas Boas, has however defended his midfielder, sweeping aside any uncertainty surrounding his player’s future at the club.
Lampard has spoken out on the matter, voicing his intent to remain as a part of the starting setup for as long as possible, saying: “I don’t want to just pick my money up and sit on my backside on the bench.”
He went on to say: “It’s a big squad and the manager has to do what he sees fit. If he wants to bring young players through at times then I have to go on with that.”
There’s also controversy in the playmaker’s international career, as he finds himself on the bench more regularly in recent matches.
Anzhi Makhachkala are said to be ready to offer both Lampard and international compatriot, Steven Gerrard, two-year contracts worth £10m each as the duo get on in their careers.
Whether or not such a lucrative pension plan will prove tempting enough to lure the stalwarts, only time will tell.
