MASON MOUNT admits Frank Lampard’s sacking is “tough” to take.
England midfielder Mount has “nothing but praise and gratitude” for his axed Chelsea chief.
Chelsea starlet Mason Mount admits its ‘not a nice’ time for Chelsea after his mentor Frank Lampard’s sacking Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Mason Mount came on as a late substitute in Thomas Tuchel’s’ first game in charge, Wednesday night’s -0 home draw with WolvesCredit: PA:Press Association
And the solemn-faced superstar, who was dropped for new manager Thomas Tuchel’s first game on Wednesday night, says the Blues need “strong characters” to reverse a worrying slump.
Academy product Mount told the BBC: “It’s not a nice time, it is a tough time for the club.”
The 22-year-old was only used as a late sub in a tame 0-0 draw with Wolves, after Lampard’s 18-month reign was ended by five defeats in eight Premier League games.
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And perhaps his mentor’s departure has hit Mount harder than most.
He explained: “I’ve been here for a very long time and seen managers depart from afar while being in the academy but when you’re in the first team building and it happens, it’s a different feeling.
“He’s been very important to me. He brought me to Derby, gave me the playing time and I learnt so much under him there before coming back to Chelsea and continuing my learning.
“I have nothing but praise and gratitude for everything he’s given me as a player on and off the pitch. I’ve definitely grown as a player as well so he obviously means a lot to me.”
Chelsea sit eighth ahead of Burnley’s trip to Stamford Bridge this Sunday.
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And Mount added: “We have to put things to the back of our heads and look forward now.
“As players, as a team and as a club, we have to stick together…
“It’s a difficult time but that’s when the strong characters within the group come out and lead us in the right direction.”
Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount has ‘nothing but praise’ for axed Frank Lampard Credit: Getty Images – Getty
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
