Lampard accepts rotation because of ‘love for Chelsea’

Frank Lampard almost enjoyed a dream return to the Chelsea starting XI last night when his goal set the Blues on their way to what looked set to be another Champions League victory in Valencia.

The midfielder’s performance appeared to vindicate manager Andre Villas-Boas’ decision to rotate him in and out of the team, something Lampard declared he was prepared to accept because of his love for the club.

He has admitted he was not happy at being left out of the Chelsea side in recent weeks, insisting he needs a run of games to maintain his form.

He was also used sparingly by England recently. Speaking after the 1-1 draw at the Mestalla where a late Roberto Soldado penalty denied the Blues victory, he said: “I don’t want to just pick my money up and sit on my backside on the bench.

“But you have to respect the manager and respect the team and the quality and the squad that we have.

“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.

“Fortunately enough, I’m at a club that I love and I’ve got a great history here.

“I want to continue that story on for a good few years, not just now, not just the next few months.”