Frank Lampard believes Enzo Fernandez “knows what is required” to be a Chelsea superstar as he backed him to shine under Mauricio Pochettino despite a quiet start to life in the capital.
The 22-year-old Argentine midfielder joined in a British record transfer from Benfica in January shortly after winning the World Cup.
Yet the £106million talent has not been able to stop Chelsea from registering their lowest points total in the Premier League era.
Caretaker manager Lampard has nonetheless outlined his faith in Fernandez’s ability to justify his price tag and eight-and-a-half-year contract. He told reporters: “I’ve got a lot of faith that Enzo will be a big part of what happens in the future of this club.
“I feel for him a little bit. He’s had a massive move to the Premier League. He’s won the World Cup. He should be sitting back at the end of this season quite rightly putting his feet up and saying: ‘What a year’.
“But in terms of how he can affect the future, I see him being essential.”
Lampard, 44, had hoped to galvanise his players given his status at the club but has only seen results spiral. As a result, he has blamed poor results on his players’ lack of fitness, work ethic and ability to do the basics.
Although he made clear not to put Fernandez in that category, adding: “Enzo gets it. He gets what’s required in training. He gets what’s required to be a Chelsea player. He’s got a high talent. Some players just get it.
“I keep talking about giving players time. But when you work with someone, you understand it very quickly, and I think he gets it.”
Chelsea’s last two matches, starting on Thursday away at Manchester United before a home game with Newcastle, could spell the end of many careers in west London.
Mason Mount, who is currently out injured, could be waving goodbye with big transfer interest from Man United, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Ahead of the trip to Old Trafford, Lampard revealed he isn’t surprised that rivals covet Mount. He said: “I’m not surprised because this is football. Does everyone know that? I really like Mason Mount as a lad and a football player. Yes, sure. Of course, they do.
“So I wish him the best personally and sitting here with my Chelsea top on now I’ve seen what Mason’s delivered in this club but then we’ll see.”
