Rafa Benitez, the Chelsea boss, has not provided any assurances that Frank Lampard will finish the season at Stamford Bridge.
The veteran midfielder has already stated that there have been no talks concerning an extension to his existing contract with Chelsea, which expires in the summer.
Additionally, Benitez has suggested that Lampard may not have a future in west London, as Chelsea looks to part ways with veteran players and focus on future opportunities.
The Spaniard has given no hint that the Blues will change their position anytime soon, with strong links between the 34-year-old and clubs like Queens Park Rangers, Monaco, and LA Galaxy.
There have even been rumors that Lampard might exit in January, and while abundant in praise for the England international’s commitment, Benitez has not dismissed the possibility of a winter transfer.
When asked about Lampard potentially moving in the New Year, Benitez responded, “The future of players is always the same. I can’t say too much.
“He is fully committed to every training session and every game.
“He is an important player for us, but I can’t comment on how he feels. I’m pleased with his attitude.”
In other news, Benitez has expressed his readiness to shake hands with Leeds United manager Neil Warnock during this week’s League Cup quarter-final as a way to resolve their ongoing feud.
The two have had numerous confrontations in the past, the most notable being in 2007 when Benitez fielded a weakened Liverpool team against Fulham.
Fulham’s victory over Liverpool not only affected Liverpool’s standing but also brought Sheffield United, then under Warnock’s management, closer to relegation from the Premier League.
Warnock claimed he would “never forgive” Benitez and added to the tension recently by revealing that their last communication occurred shortly after that event, where he received an email from Benitez’s lawyers warning him of potential legal action should he continue criticizing their client.
When asked if he would be willing to shake hands with Warnock before the match, Benitez stated, “I’m professional so I will do my job. I’m professional; I will behave.”
Warnock also appears to be eager to move past this episode, even though he did not confirm that he would partake in a pre-match handshake.
“Enough water’s passed under the bridge,” Warnock remarked. “It’s one of those things that disappoints you in life, and you have to get on with it really.
“You encounter disappointments in every aspect of life, and I’ve expressed my sentiments clearly over the past few years – and nothing will change that.
“I believe it had his name on it; I think it was his solicitor who was threatening legal action, and I’ve kept it in a scrapbook at home.”
by Terence Johns
