Why Frank Lampard deserves a contract extension at Chelsea

It would seem that everybody wants Frank Lampard apart from the one man that matters: Roman Abramovich.

The Russian billionaire is the most powerful figure at Stamford Bridge and if he wanted the England midfielder to stay then it is highly unlikely that he would be going anywhere.  Yet, the growing uncertainty surrounding where Lampard will be playing next season suggests that Abramovich is quite happy for the club to continue with its policy of offering one-year rolling contracts to players over the age of 30.

At the heart of everything since Chelsea became a dominant force in the Premier League, the issue regarding Lampard’s contract is an emotive one for Blues’ fans who have grown accustomed to seeing him find the net and collect silverware at the West London club.  More significantly, it was only last season that, after 11 years and over 550 appearances, this man captained them in their first ever Champions League final victory.  It doesn’t get much more emotive than that.

Since 2003/04, Lampard has continued to reach double figures in league goals, incredibly scoring 20 or more in all competitions in five of the nine seasons preceding this year’s campaign.  With his work-rate, creativity and intelligence complemented by such an impressive goal-scoring record, it is no wonder Chelsea have enjoyed so much success with him in the team.

Turning 35 years of age in June, some people may question whether Lampard still has the legs to carry on.  This, of course, is part of the problem with any proposed contract negotiations, but half-way through this season he is well on course to match his feats of previous years.  And, with adulation from players like Andrea Pirlo, who went a whole season unbeaten with reigning Serie A champions Juventus before leading Italy to the final of Euro 2012, surely he must still have plenty to offer?

Frank Lampard continues to let his feet do the talking by showing he remains an important asset to the team.  The question now is will the Chelsea board listen?

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