Chelsea target, Declan Rice, in action for West Ham United. (GETTY Images)
Speaking ahead of their match against West Ham United (h/t Daily Mail), Frank Lampard gave his views on Declan Rice leaving Chelsea as a teenager amidst transfer rumours linking the player with a return to Stamford Bridge in January for £70m.
West Ham United’s Declan Rice left Chelsea’s youth academy as a 14-year-old. He was later snapped up by The Hammers’ academy in the summer of 2015.
Despite being linked with a big-money move for the ex-Chelsea youngster in the upcoming transfer window, Frank Lampard said that there are no regrets over letting him leave the club.
“It shows a strength of character. Wouldn’t say it’s a regret.”
Instead of seeing it as a regretful situation, the English manager says that Rice deserves “personal credit” for the way his career has progressed since leaving the Blues academy.
“Our academy is one of the best in the world and it’s not easy because it’s not an exact science. Declan deserves personal credit for the start he has had at West Ham.”
The 21-year-old was linked with a move to Chelsea this summer but ended up staying at the London Stadium. He has played in all 13 of West Ham’s league games this term and is a major reason behind their marvellous start to the season.
Chelsea now face Declan Rice’s West Ham United on Monday. Frank Lampard is also familiar with the club, having spent 7 years with the Hammers before signing as a player for Chelsea in 2001.
West Ham United sit 8th in the table, just a point behind Chelsea. The Blues, who were 3rd a fortnight ago, have fallen down to 7th in the table after consecutive league losses to Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
West Ham United, meanwhile, are on the back of an underwhelming draw against Crystal Palace on Wednesday. The Hammers did the double over Chelsea last season, winning home and away against Frank Lampard’s men.
Jadon Sancho has hit the ground running in his season-long loan at Chelsea, with the Blues eyeing a permanent deal…
Chelsea appear to be rediscovering their form under Enzo Maresca, aiming for a top-four finish as they currently sit third…
In their bid to further bolster their defense, Chelsea are aiming to make a big move for the star right-back…
Christopher Nkunku is keen to leave Chelsea in January over lack of game time in the Premier League There has…
Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres is on the radar of Chelsea Chelsea are riding high in the Premier League, sitting…
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca eyeing defensive reinforcements in January Chelsea could well find themselves in the market to improve their…