Lampard thanks fans for banner message
FRANK LAMPARD has thanked the Chelsea fans who created a Stamford Bridge banner throwing their support behind his managerial reign in west London.
Fans group We Are The Shed created a banner reading “In Frank we trust. Then. Now. Forever,” that was displayed for the first time in yesterday’s FA Cup clash with Luton.
Tammy Abraham’s hat-trick helped Chelsea ease into the fifth round with a 3-1 win, though Timo Werner missed a late penalty.
Lampard has come under pressure after five losses in eight Premier League encounters, but this influential group of Chelsea fans have made their feelings clear on their staunch support for the ex-Blues midfielder.
“I knew about the banner maybe a week or two ago, directly from those who put it together, who are obviously massive supporters of this club; and I was very appreciative,” said Lampard. “I don’t know if emotional was the word, but people who know about how I feel about this club will understand, it’s a two-way thing from the first time I came here, maybe 20 years ago nearly. So I’m very thankful for that support, and it’s great to see it at the Bridge. I feel it very strongly indeed.
“I know the modern world has moved on with social media
there are eyes all over the world. But one thing I know is that when I’m at the Bridge, the fans have shown me huge support as a player, and now as manager here as well. So I appreciate it very much.
“All I want to do is repay that with being successful at the club, and working through a tough moment to bring a longterm success to the club.”
Elsewhere, Brendan Rodgers hailed the hunger and enthusiasm of James Maddison after the England midfielder helped Leicester avoid a shock at Brentford.
The Foxes were trailing to Mads Bech Sorensen’s early goal when Maddison grabbed
the fourth-round scruff of the neck
Just 48 seconds into the second half Maddison jinked his way to the edge of the area before teeing up Cengiz Under to drill in the equaliser. Youri Tielemans then added a second from the penalty spot after he was fouled by Tariqe Fosu. And Maddison wrapped up a 3-1 win with a tap-in after Harvey Barnes’ shot was saved.
“He has a wonderful enthusiasm for football, he plays with that joy,” Rodgers said of Maddison. “But he’s becoming really consistent as well. He has a real hunger and desire to succeed and he’s well on the path to doing that.” tie by the