Thursday, December 12, 2024

Grieving Lampard back for Chelsea

Frank Lampard returned to the Chelsea team for their Champions League semi-final second leg against Liverpool after mourning the death of his mother.

Lampard missed Saturday's win over Manchester United following his mother Pat's death from pneumonia last Thursday, but the England midfielder trained with his team-mates this week before telling Blues manager Avram Grant he wanted to play at Stamford Bridge.

With Lampard back in midfield alongside Claude Makelele and Michael Ballack, Grant switched Michael Essien to right-back in place of Paulo Ferreira.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez handed John Arne Riise a chance for redemption after the Norway left-back's own goal gave Chelsea a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Benitez also sprung a surprise by picking Yossi Benayoun ahead of Ryan Babel on the left-wing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SoccerNews

Soccernews.com is news blog for soccer with comprehensive coverage of all the major leagues in Europe, as well as MLS in the United States. In addition we offer breaking news for transfers and transfer rumors, ticket sales, betting tips and offers, match previews, and in-depth editorials.

You can follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/soccernews.com or Twitter: @soccernewsfeed.

SHARE OR COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE

WE RECOMMEND

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required *

Join the conversation!

or Register

Live Scores

advertisement

Betting Guide Advertisement

advertisement

Become a Writer
More More
Top