With the news now emerging that Frank Lampard is set to miss the next “few weeks” with a calf problem, it’s an injury that Chelsea fans would’ve rued in recent years. The England international was substituted midway through the first half of the recent Champions League defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk after making, what could be considered, a rare start under Roberto Di Matteo.
It’s all but fair to assume that Lampard’s input has been lessened in recent months, regardless of his impact following the Italian’s promotion to manager following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas earlier this year.
However, the acquisitions of Eden Hazard and Oscar, coupled with the form of established trio John Obi Mikel, Ramires and Juan Mata, has seen Chelsea rise to the summit of the Premiership, dropping just two points in the 0-0 draw with QPR.
There is still a part for Lampard to play, don’t get me wrong, with his three goals and two assists in 12 appearances a testament to this. However, fans are beginning to realise his outings will become more and more sporadic as the season wears on.
With his contract set to expire in the summer, there is the distinct possibility that Chelsea could allow Lampard to leave on a free next year. MLS sides are believed to be showing an interest in the goalscoring midfielder.
It may well be the wisest option for the Blues to take, with Lampard one of the highest earners at Stamford Bridge. Nevertheless, his loss will certainly be hard for supporters to take, having endeared himself to the club’s loyal fans since his arrival from West Ham United in 2001.
However, with the midfielder set to spend the next few weekson the sidelines, his loss won’t be felt as hard as it has done in previous seasons.