Frank Lampard was full of praise for Jorginho after his performance during the Blues’ victory against Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The Chelsea boss hailed the Brazilian as a leader for the club’s youngsters and someone to look up to after his penalty opened the 2-nil victory over Brighton. The win was the first for Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this season, giving Lampard the much-needed boost.
Jorginho easily converted his penalty from the spot after Mason Mount was fouled by Adam Webster just after the half time. Willian’s deflected strike was enough to give the Blues their first home win under their new boss.
Jorginho was a divisive figure among the Chelsea fans last season. His closeness with then Chelsea manager, Maurizio Sarri, came under scrutiny but the midfielder has kept his place under Lampard. The new boss is quite happy with the midfielder’s contribution on and off the field.
The coach said, “He is a leader in his personality. Whatever happened last year, I was not here. For whatever reason, people will make judgments, but all I can judge is what I see in front of me and from pre-season he has been one of the leaders, clearly, in the dressing room and on the pitch.”
Lampard added, “He wants to win, and I know that should be the basics and it is the basics for everyone, but to show it in everything you do is important. He does that, so I’m pleased with Jorgie and the young players need to look up to that attitude he has daily.”
The youngsters have been the stars so far for Chelsea this season, and Lampard believe that their progress has got to do with their more experienced teammates.
“The kids are playing because they deserve to, because I don’t really consider age, but they will also always need that experienced player around them,” Lampard said.
“You talk about Jorginho, the coolness of head to score the penalty. You talk about Willian, who not only created chances for himself and got his goal, but his work ethic was fantastic today.
“Those are the standards. Some of the experienced players set those standards and the youngsters must follow.”
The Blues have problems with their finishing but the coach was pleased that they prevailed over their frustration at the first half.
The Blues played without N’Golo Kante. The boss wisely sidelined the midfielder as a precaution and may be available when they face Lille in the UCL on Wednesday.
