Frank Lampard has said he wants to see Chelsea pair Mason Mount and Ben Chilwell tested for covid ahead of schedule so they can be ready for selection for England’s massive Euro 2020 clash with Germany on Tuesday.
Speaking on the BBC Football Daily podcast, Lampard gave his verdict on the situation surrounding the Blues’ Champions League winners.
Mount and Chilwell are currently in isolation having been in close contact with Chelsea teammate Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for covid-19.
All three club teammates were spotted chatting after England’s draw with Scotland on Friday. With some of their conversation taking place within the restriction of the players’ tunnel, it was deemed there had been enough time for the disease to potentially spread.
The trio missed their nation’s final group games as the Three Lions progressed and Scotland headed home.
Mount and Chilwell ruling a ‘joke’
It was a decision that caused outrage, especially from a Chelsea/England perspective.
Gary Neville called it a “joke”, while Jack Grealish was baffled that none of the Scottish squad had to isolate.
Chilwell and Mount’s return date is on the morning of their knock-out fixture against Germany at Wembley.
Lampard demands more tests
There’s a strong debate over whether Mount should start the match, such is his importance to Gareth Southgate’s side.
Neville said the midfielder shouldn’t be involved but it’s an opinion his former England teammate Lampard doesn’t agree with.
“Gareth and a lot of people have spoken about (the ruling). It doesn’t feel quite right,” said the former Chelsea manager.
“These rules are contradictory to say the least.
“I would love nothing more for them to test Mason and Ben Chilwell later in the week or whenever it is and allow them to play this game.”
Can Southgate cope without Chelsea ace Mount?
Of the two Chelsea players, Mount’s inclusion would be the least surprising.
He started the two Euro 2020 ties against Croatia and Scotland, while Chilwell has yet to feature in the tournament.
However, having not trained with the group, it would be a highly controversial move from England’s boss to bring either of them straight back into the starting XI.
Luckily for Southgate, his options in forward areas remain plentiful.
In Mount’s absence, Grealish and Bukayo Saka stepped up during the victory over Czech Republic this week.
Jadon Sancho earned a brief substitute cameo, while Phil Foden didn’t even make the bench as he was protected from the possibility of a second yellow card.
England’s left-back position is well stocked too thanks to Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier’s impressive performances so far.
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