Frank Lampard has hit back at suggestions he is not using N’Golo Kante in his best position for Chelsea.
Lampard’s predecessor Maurizio Sarri controversially deployed Kante in a more attacking role.
That was expected to change when the Italian left Stamford Bridge, but Jorginho has continued to operate in the deeper role for Chelsea under Lampard this season.
However, speaking at a press conference, Lampard said: “I haven’t always played him in the same role as Sarri, as a slightly forward right-sided number eight.
“There have been plenty of times this season where we’ve played two midfielders – as N’Golo played for France, as he played for Leicester and as he played for Antonio Conte’s team with two midfield players.
“He wasn’t the holder (in Conte’s team), Matic probably would have been more of the holder and N’Golo Kante used his energy to get almost all over the pitch. So I’ve used him as I see fit.”
Lampard has been linked with a move for Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumaré but has insisted the player is not a target despite reports that Chelsea are chasing a deal to sign him.
Lampard said: “I’m aware of him as a player but he’s not on my radar for this window,” Lampard said.
“We played against them (in the Champions League) and I know he’s a good player, but that’s not one that’s on the immediate radar.”