Chelsea’s success this season was built on the back of academy players being managed by Frank Lampard, who didn’t come through the academy but was a “reference” for so many of this generation while he was in the first team and they were kids.
Tammy Abraham’s latest interview in the 5th Stand App (Football.London have the quotes if you’re not on mobile) reveals exactly how deep the admiration for the like of Lampard was among academy stars ran:
“When we were growing up, him and John Terry were massive for us over in the academy,” the forward said when asked about the impact of the man who is now the gaffer.
“Lampard was always a leader, he always wanted to train the best, be the best. You could see that in his character.
“I see similarities in Mason Mount, you know.”
That’s a massive compliment. While being compared to Lampard in terms of ability is flattering in itself, being compared to him in terms of determination and application is even better.
If Mount continues to develop like Frank did, and has Tammy up front finishing off the chances, the two could go down as heroes at the Bridge just like their predecessors Lamps and JT.
—
“Football in England changed with that Southampton team of 2013-14, there is no other team that had as big an impact in changing the mindset.” – Who modestly said this about their own side? Find out here.
