Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has revealed that goalkeeper Willy Caballero is brilliant in training, as well as confirming that he’ll start on Wednesday night against Barnsley.
The Blues host Championship opposition Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup and it’s a chance to try regain some confidence after the weekends 2-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Premier League.
Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga made another high-profile mistake against Liverpool, as the pressure continues to grow on the 25-year-old Spaniard and supporters remain frustrated with him.
Lampard has confirmed (official website) that Rennes’ 28-year-old goalkeeper Edouard Mendy is having a medical ahead of his move to Stamford Bridge, which now looks on the verge of completing.
But it’s veteran Caballero that will get his opportunity to try impress in midweek against Barnsley and he did play 14 first-team games last season.
The 38-year-old is a senior figure in the dressing room at Stamford Bridge and still has plenty to offer on the pitch as well.
Lampard had previously stated that the Argentine shot-stopper was in line to start against Barnsley, but has now added he has throughly earned the opportunity to play due to the fact he’s an excellent trainer.
“The decision on Willy Caballero [to start] was made before Liverpool and it was a decision I made a lot in cup competitions last year. Willy trains brilliantly throughout the year and deserves these opportunities,” Lampard said, as quoted by the club’s official website.
Caballero is a real professional that will be doing what he can to lift the spirits of Kepa, plus he’s likely to help imminent signing Mendy when he arrives too.
It seems unlikely that the veteran goalkeeper will get too many minutes this season, so should enjoy the Barnsley fixture and hope for a good run in the League Cup.
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