Lampard has strong words for Kepa but won’t sign a keeper – for now

Frank Lampard says he is not looking to sign a goalkeeper during this transfer window but has made it clear to Kepa Arrizabalaga that he needs to improve.

Kepa’s performances for Chelsea this season have attracted criticism – and speculation that Blues boss Lampard could look to replace him.

Burnley’s England keeper Nick Pope has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge amid reports that Kepa could be ousted as number one.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Lampard ruled out signing a keeper – for now – but wants to see an improvement from the Spain international.

“I’m not looking at it (signing a keeper) now and I’m not affected by criticism from the outside,” Lampard said.

“I think with Kepa, he’ll be honest and there have been some mistakes that he’s made that have costs goals. That needs to improve.”

Kepa is clearly under pressure given his poor recent form and the £71m transfer fee paid to Athletic Bilbao for him in 2018.

“He’ll have to deal with that because that’s what football is,” Lampard said.

“Every footballer, no matter how good or great you are, the best – the absolute best of all time – get criticism and that’s what players have to deal with.

“The important thing is to not get too embroiled in what the outside world is saying, and look at yourself and your own game.

“That’s always the basics: how hard can you work? And that’s not just Kepa, it’s any player.

“If you’re lacking form, fight to get it back. Go back to basics.”