Back in contention – Chelsea loanee still part of Lampard’s vision for the club

Chelsea loanee Ross Barkley still in Frank Lampard’s plans

According to 90min (h/t Birmingham Mail), Chelsea loanee Ross Barkley is playing himself into contention in Frank Lampard’s future vision for Chelsea.

The Englishman has enjoyed a fine run of form since joining Aston Villa on loan in the summer. He has already scored twice and assisted once more in just five games for the Villans. (h/t Transfermarkt)

His performances have not grown unnoticed. Chelsea boss, Lampard has already informed the player that he has a place at Stamford Bridge going forward. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Perhaps smartly, Chelsea did not include a buyout clause in the loan deal that took the player to Villa Park. Any potential deal will see the ball in our court. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Barkley has shown himself to be a player for the big occasions. He led Villa to wins over Liverpool, Leicester City and Arsenal, scoring in the former two games.

This has also led to him garnering widespread praise from VBilla boss Dean Smith. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Smith has been so impressed by the player and has even backed him to return to the England national team fold. The midfielder has not played for the Three Lions in over a year now. (h/t Birmingham Mail)

Barkley has, over the years, been considered a player with a high potential. Unfortunately, he has largely proven himself to be an inconsistent performer.

At 26, he still has his best years ahead of him and can turn around his career. As of yet, he has impressed at Villa, and there will be much interest in how he goes about for the remainder of the campaign.

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The fact that Lampard is keen to reward the player for his performances is a testament to his managerial ability. The Blues are building a young, hungry squad. Barkley may yet have a role to play in a Blue jersey in the future.