Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Lampard available to face Reds

21 Apr 2008 - 11:10:44

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Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has made himself available to play in Tuesday's crucial Champions League semi-final first leg clash against Liverpool at Anfield.

The 29-year-old former West Ham star missed last week's Premier League matches against Wigan Athletic and Everton to be at his sick mother's bedside.

But a statement released by the player's agent, Steve Kutner, on Monday morning read: "Frank Lampard has made himself available for tomorrow night's Champions League match at Liverpool after spending the last seven days at the bedside of his sick mother.

"Although still very ill, her condition has now stabilised. Hopefully there is light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

"Frank would like to acknowledge the consideration shown to him by Chelsea FC and the media during this time of immense strain for himself and his family."

Meanwhile, Blues boss Avram Grant has not ruled out the prospect of Steven Gerrard being a Chelsea player next season.

The Liverpool midfielder has been on the verge of moving to Stamford Bridge in the past, and Grant admits he is a player he admires greatly.

He said: "Gerrard is a great player and a great person. For me, he is the player of the year in England, and maybe in Europe, because of the influence he has on the team.

"I like him very much as a player and I know him. He is a nice guy and an example to others. He plays against me but he is still my favourite player.

"If you can bring him to me, I will be happy."