Chelsea boss Frank Lampard admits that Kepa Arrizabalaga needs protecting after a hard time in recent months at Stamford Bridge.
The goalkeeper, who the Blues signed from Athletic Club for £71million in 2018, has struggled for form during 2020.
The Spanish international has made a number of costly mistakes and at times, it has led to him being dropped to the bench by Blues boss Lampard.
His inconsistent form has led to the signing of Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who is in contention to make his debut for Lampard’s side against Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup.
With Willy Caballero also starting ahead of Kepa during the draw with West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on Saturday, questions have been asked over Kepa’s long-term future and whether or not Mendy’s arrival would mean that the Spaniard is set to depart London.
Asked in his pre-match press conference whether Kepa has played his last match or not, Lampard refused to say that the goalkeeper’s future at the club is over.
“I certainly won’t go along the point that he has played his last game for Chelsea,” said Lampard.
“I think it has been a difficult time for Kepa. It has been well documented, I know it and he knows it. But we should certainly not jump to that conclusion.
“Also I think, which I have felt quite strongly about in the last week, is understanding he is a young man and a lot of the spotlight on him I think has become slightly unfair.
“I have to protect him because I know he is a good lad. Playing with absolute professionalism to do the best that he can, as all the squad have to.”
