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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
JOE KRISHNAN

Frank Lampard should be next Chelsea manager if Maurizio Sarri departs, says Didier Drogba

Frank Lampard would be a "very good option" for Chelsea's next manager if Maurizio Sarri departs, according to Didier Drogba.

Standard Sport understands the Blues legend is on the club's first-choice candidate to replace Sarri if the Italian coach takes over the vacant job at Juventus.

Italian tactician Massimiliano Allegri and Watford boss Javi Gracia are also thought to be viewed as potential replacements with the 60-year-old widely expected to return to the Serie A.

Lampard, 40, enjoyed a fine debut season in management, taking the Rams to the Championship Play-off Final before a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at Wembley.

And Drogba believes Lampard's lack of experience will not count against him should the Blues decide to offer him the job.

The pair were team-mates at Chelsea from 2004-2012. (Getty Images)

“I think it is a very good option for the club,” he said. “He has done well with Derby, taking the team to the play-off final.”

Drogba, who will take part in the Soccer Aid charity match alongside former team-mate Michael Essien, believes Lampard's age should not be the reason he doesn't get the job.

“So he is never going to be ready, then? Does he have to wait until he is 50 to be ready?" the Ivorian replied when asked about his inexperience.

"I think it depends on your experience and depends on your desire to succeed and do it.

"If he feels ready I don’t think it is too early."

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