Frank Lampard has claimed that he believes Enzo Fernandez will benefit from playing a different role for Chelsea next season.
He told The Athletic that he sees the Argentine starring more in a ‘number 8’ role instead of the sole ‘number six’ he has been featuring in this season.
Fernandez has been called upon for every single game since he came in to the club in January, and has impressed greatly in his outings.
The club have struggled to find the perfect midfield partner for the World Cup winner this season though, seeing him sitting on his own at times and looing slightly exposed.
Lampard has now claimed that Mauricio Pochettino could get the best out of the 22-year-old by featuring him slightly higher up the pitch.
Lampard tips Fernandez for new role under Pochettino
He said: “My personal view with Enzo is that he can probably play in all the midfield roles, but seeing him train and play, I get the feeling from him that he has more to offer than as a single No 6. He can play as a double No 6 or as a No 8 where he can join into the game more.
“I haven’t actually asked him that question (his best role). In my time here, it’s just been a fact that he is the most natural No 6 in a midfield that doesn’t have many natural No 6s.
“Fair play to him, he’s never once said to me, ‘That’s not for me’. His attitude is to do the best for the team, but going forward I think he can join into the game a lot more.
“We saw bits of it against Manchester City where he played in a double No 6 slightly higher up the pitch, and he’s got a really good eye to play forward.”
Moises Caicedo has reportedly been listed as the number one target for the Blues as they look to assist Fernandez for next season.