Frank Lampard has spoken of why he felt Reece James deserved his opportunity in the Champions League this evening (Wednesday).
The 19-year-old was given his first taste of European football as the Chelsea head coach named him in the starting line-up for the Group H game in France, despite James only making his full debut for the Blues in the Carabao Cup last week.
But Lampard said he has impressed him in training, having recently returned from injury after a superb spell on loan at Wigan last season in the Championship.
“I like Reece. I have known Reece since his academy days, and I saw him last year at Wigan when he was fantastic in the Championship," Lampard told BT Sport ahead of the game.
“Since he has been fit, he has shown that in training with us. He had a good game against Grimsby and I think he has good quality he can bring to this game. I do trust the young players, and they are surrounded by experience in the team.
“Reece is in the team, he is another young one, and it is a great game for him.”
Meanwhile, Lampard said he was delighted to have N'Golo Kante back in the side, having also recovered from injury after a "stop-start" season so far.
“He is important. We know N’Golo and his career speaks for itself, with his performances and what he puts in," said Lampard.
"It is good to have him fit. We know he has had a stop-start season because of injuries, but he has been good for the last few days. He brings energy, experience and lots of quality, so I am pleased to have him back in the team."
