Benitez stays mum on Lampard

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez has once again refused to be drawn into speculation about the future of veteran midfielder Frank Lampard.

The England international has responded to rumours he will not be offered a new deal come seasons end by scoring four goals in his past five matches, a run of form which prompted goalkeeper Petr Cech to suggest the club may yet reconsider the outcast midfielder’s future.

But Benitez, whose own future is by no means certain, insists he is not concerned by Lampard’s situation and is only focused on ensuring his performances continue as the season progresses.

“We can see him training, we can see that he is doing well,” said Benitez.

“As I said the other day, he was doing well and the rest of the team was doing well at the same time.

“So that is maybe what Petr [Cech] was trying to say, that he can still play at a good level, and hopefully can continue until the end of the season.

“I have to get the best from him. And I would be delighted if he can score 15 goals [between] now and the end of the season.

“My job is just to keep him fit, and I’m sure that he will be working as he’s working at the moment.”