Lampard to start crucial United clash

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Frank Lampard will make his first start since August in Sunday’s crucial clash against Premier League leaders Manchester United.

Lampard has been sidelined by hernia surgery and a groin injury for over three months and Chelsea have struggled without their goal-scoring midfielder.

With fourth placed Chelsea trailing United by three points following a woeful run of five league games without a win, Ancelotti is delighted that Lampard is finally ready to return to his starting line-up for the first time since a win over Stoke on August 28.

The 32-year-old England star made a 15 minute substitute appearance in last weekend’s draw at Tottenham after persuading Ancelotti to bring him back ahead of schedule.

And, after Lampard played 60 minutes of a friendly at the club’s Cobham training ground earlier this week, Ancelotti has no qualms about playing him against United.

“Frank played 60 minutes without problems and finally he will play on Sunday, he will start,” Ancelotti told reporters on Friday.

“It is good news because it is Lampard. This team missed Lampard, his ability to score from midfield and his experience.

“He can help us because he is fresh and has a strong desire to come back and play.

“We waited a lot of time with him because we didn’t want to take a risk.”