Frank Lampard is in the dark about his Chelsea future. Photo credit: John Walton/EMPICS

Roberto Di Matteo hailed Frank Lampard

Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo hopes Frank Lampard can play well into his late 30s like Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs have done.

Talks have started over a new deal for the 33-year-old and the Italian is hopeful that these reach a successful conclusion.

“I want him for a long time, well into his late thirties,” Di Matteo said.

“Frank has been very influential at Chelsea over the years. He is very influential within the squad.

“I hope the talks will have a successful conclusion. I have given my recommendation then it is down to the board.

“Frank is a very important player for us. He is in good shape and he looks after himself.

“We have a lot of competition in midfield but we have a lot of games. Can I give guarantees about an older player? Yes, he can play an integral part this season.

“He has a slightly different role but we still want to do what is best for him – going forward with runs into the box and scoring goals.”

It appears that his long-term replacement has already arrived at the club in the shape of Eden Hazard.

Di Matteo said: “We have very high hopes for him. He is an exciting player and he has great technical ability and pace.”