Chelsea’s top-four fate in own hands, says Lampard

LONDON: Chelsea’s Champions League hopes are firmly in their own hands and winning their final four Premier League games will cap off a successful season, manager Frank Lampard said on Friday.

Chelsea, third in the standings with 60 points, two ahead of fith-placed Manchester United, travel to Sheffield United on Saturday looking to strengthen their top-four credentials with a fith win in six league games since the season’s restart.

“It’s easy to bring up momentum but I don’t believe in it. You’re only as good as your next game,” Lampard told reporters in a virtual news conference.

“I didn’t know what the expectations would be at the start of the season but our destiny is now in our hands. I’m prety happy with where we are. We can’t jump the gun though because we have seen in the last few weeks how things can change.”

Billy Gilmour, who has had an impressive breakthrough season, sustained a knee injury during Tuesday’s 3-2 victory at Crystal Palace.

Lampard confirmed the 19-year-old, who has made 11 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, would be sidelined for up to four months ater undergoing surgery on Friday.

“I am disappointed, as is he. I spoke with him yesterday and gave him some support. He is a tough boy but he should be pleased with what he has done this season. His attitude will get him back as soon as he can,” the Chelsea boss said.

“His character for me is fantastic, especially with his age. He will put in the work and the rehab. We will be there for him.

Lampard confirmed France midfielder N’golo Kante will sit out a second straight game as he continues to batle a hamstring problem but Mateo Kovacic is set to make his return ater missing the victories against Waford and Palace.

The 29-year-old has struggled with injuries over the course of the 2019/20 campaign and has missed much of the season.