Lampard: Age just a number

Midfield stalwart Frank Lampard believes he can retain his place in the Chelsea team, despite turning 33 in the close season.

Lampard has become a mainstay at Stamford Bridge since joining from West Ham United in 2001, helping the team lift three English Premier League titles and three FA Cups.

He endured an injury-interrupted campaign last season, starting only 23 league matches, and has now reached a point in his career where a player might be expected to decline.

But the England international has no intention of going quietly, resolving to extend his stay in the professional game for as long as possible.

“I think the age thing has changed,” Lampard told The Sun.

“People are pretty quick to write you off once you get into your 30s but they have proved to be a lot of players’ best years.”

“Ryan Giggs was outstanding against us in the Champions League quarter-final last season – and in a lot of other games – at 37 years old.”

“If you look after yourself, keep motivated, which is very important, know your body, do the right things, and manage yourself well, then you can certainly have your best years in your 30s.”

Not content with merely extending his career, Lampard is determined to keep playing for Chelsea in the sport’s elite competitions.

“There’s a lovely mix at this level,” he said.

“I love playing, I love the sport and the basics of going out to play football. But I also love the stuff that comes with it at the top.”

“I’d still enjoy playing if it were at Sunday league level, but I like the cut-throat mentality at this level, where you have to keep on top of your game no matter what because, if you drop, you’re out of it.”

“That’s what drives me on, I like being at the top.”