Chelsea can’t afford another season without a trophy, says Lampard

LONDON - Frank Lampard insists that Chelsea cannot afford another season without a trophy, and warns that fear of failure will drive him on in FA Cup final.

Lampard has grown accustomed to picking up silverware in his eight years at Stamford Bridge. But defeat by Everton would leave him empty-handed for the second season in a row.

“We have come to expect success and it’s important to take something positive from this season, for the club, the fans and the confidence of the players. We were close last season but just missed out. It was the same story in the Champions League this time. So, this is our last chance for a trophy,” The Sun quoted Lampard, as saying.

“Some recent memories are pretty insufferable - losing to Manchester United on penalties in Moscow, standing on the Wembley pitch knowing England wouldn’t be going to EURO 2008. But you have to use them as a positive, to drive you on and make the next victory sweeter,” he said.

“As you become more mature, you realise you can’t win everything. Even a player as decorated as Ryan Giggs has lost out in his career. But Chelsea need to get back to the mentality of a couple of years ago, when we were strong as a group, winning week after week and succeeding in the league and cups,” Lampard added.

Departing Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink deserves a trophy insists Lampard. “Everyone really respects the man and everything he has done for this club. It’s vitally important we sign off with a win for Guus.” (ANI)