Frank Lampard insists Kepa Arrizabalaga has Chelsea future ahead of FA Cup clash with Liverpool
Frank Lampard has revealed Kepa Arrizabalaga is in line for a Chelsea recall , but warned the keeper his fading Euro 2020 hopes are the least of his worries.
The world’s most expensive keeper has lost his place to 38-year-old Willy Caballero and boss Lampard is ready to recommend the Blues sign a new No 1.
Arrizabalaga’s spell on the sidelines has raised concerns over his place in Spain’s squad for the European Championship. And Lampard confirmed on Monday he is considering handing his out-of-favour keeper an opportunity to regain his regular place in Tuesday night’s FA Cup tie against Liverpool.
Kepa Arrizabalaga’s Chelsea future remains in his own hands, according to Frank Lampard
Asked if Arrizabalaga was in the frame to start at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, Lampard answered: ‘Yes. He’s been professional as expected. He’s trained well, kept his head down, supported the team and the group. Every player is in control of their destiny in how they train and how they play.
‘Of course we have to look at the group in the summer. But there are no decisions beyond the game tomorrow night as far as I’m concerned.’
On the prospect of Arrizabalaga missing out on Spain’s Euro 2020 squad as a result of his recent omission, Lampard added: ‘I haven’t discussed that with him and I can only pick the team as I see it from a Chelsea point of view.
‘He must have a positive attitude and I’m a pretty fair man. I only call it as I see it, as I see training and performances.
‘Of course he can play for his country. He’s shown that already, so that hopefully isn’t a big issue at the moment.’
Lampard says Arrizabalaga has adopted a positive attitude since his exclusion from the first XI