Frank Lampard praised Jorginho’s “personality” after the midfielder came in from the cold to help keep Chelsea in the driving seat for a Champions League spot.
Jorginho faces an uncertain future after he was again on the bench for Tuesday’s 3-2 win at Crystal Palace, as Lampard instead turned to Billy Gilmour to replace the injured N’Golo Kante.
Since the restart, Jorginho has been out of favour and there has been talk he could leave Stamford Bridge to link up with former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri at Juventus.
However, on a nervy evening for Chelsea, the Italian came on as a substitute for the final 10 minutes and helped the Blues regain a measure of control as they moved up to third.
Lampard said: “He came on and showed personality, and we were lacking personality at that point. He got on the ball, moved it about and then you have control and you can force them back. The reason I played Billy does not mean anything for the future of Jorginho.
“We saw the impact Jorginho had in calming the team down and making passes. I know he can give us that and he will continue to give us that.”
Chelsea were twice given a scare during five minutes of injury time when Kepa Arrizabalaga tipped Scott Dann’s header onto the post and Kurt Zouma made a saving challenge when Christian Benteke was through on goal.
“Not good for your health,” said Lampard, whose side moved up to third in the table, five points ahead of Manchester United in fifth. “But they are a big three points.”
