Frank Lampard has launched a staunch defence of his Chelsea youth policy ahead of the UEFA Super Cup final against Liverpool.
The Blues boss has already shown he is not afraid of giving the club’s academy talent a chance to shine – selecting Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham in his starting XI that lost 4-0 to Manchester United on Sunday.
The manner of the defeat has raised questions over Lampard’s willingness to give Chelsea’s youngsters further opportunities – but the Chelsea legend insists the likes of Mount and Abraham deserve their chance.
‘With regards to picking inexperienced or experienced teams, I completely pick the best team I see to win the game regardless of age.
‘I think it’s very important to have a competitive team. Yes, if young players are showing what they can do in training and deserve their chance – for example Mason Mount deserves his chance completely on merit – I will have no fears to play young players because it’s important for a club like Chelsea that we do that.
‘But they need to deserve their chance.’
Lampard also insisted he is fully prepared for the trials and tribulations of being Chelsea manager following a topsy-turvy seven days at the club.
David Luiz was sold to Arsenal on deadline day after the Brazilian caused disruption at the training ground in an effort to force his move to the Emirates.
That was followed by Sunday’s thrashing at the hands of Manchester United – but just a few days later Lampard has the opportunity to win his first trophy as Blues manager in Istanbul.
And Lampard added: ‘This week is a good example of the manager’s rollercoaster – but I had a year at Derby last season where I had similar rollercoasters.
‘I think that comes with all managers jobs, particularly at clubs like Chelsea, Liverpool, Man City – all the bigger teams.
‘I’m very prepared for that. It has been a week where a lot has happened – but I was ready for that and I certainly don’t fear that.
‘There are challenges every day in this job, from small decisions at the training ground to a bigger decision about a player after a result.
‘I’m prepared for that and let’s see what the rollercoaster brings moving forward.’
