Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that Frank Lampard still has a major part to play for Chelsea despite being dropped for the Champions League win over Valencia at Stamford Bridge.

Lampard was an unused substitute in the 3-0 win over the Spanish side, but Villas-Boas has said that the 33-year-old midfielder is still in contention for a start against Manchester City on Monday.

"Important players have been left out at Chelsea, players of immense talent," said the Portuguese manager.

"He is one of the greatest players in the world but this choice was three players in midfield because of their technical ability to keep possession and keep it on the ground without a lot of long balls.

"He will come back in the future certainly. He has been fantastic in the way he has taken these tough decisions."

Lampard moved to Chelsea from West Ham for £11m in 2001.

Written by
Sam Hughes