Chelsea was captain Frank Lampard has said that he is very much impressed by the attitude shown by Spaniard Juan Mata after being dropped by manager José Mourinho in the last few matches. There has been a cold war going on between Mourinho and Mata since the arrival of the Portuguese in the summer. After being a first-team regular in the last few seasons, Mata has found himself on the bench. Mourinho said that he must prove that he will be capable of adapting to the new style of play that will be implemented at Chelsea this season.
After an impressive performance against Swindon, Mourinho revealed that the 25-year-old will be starting the crucial Champions league encounter against Steaua Bucharest. Even though he was dropped from the team, Mata has shown fantastic attitude to be able to impress the manager according to Lampard. Mata proved to be the game changer in the recent 1-1 draw with Tottenham. He created the goal for John Terry’s equaliser after Chelsea had fallen to a first-half goal from Sigurdsson. Even though Mata did not start the match, he was introduced as a substitute at half-time.
It made all the difference and Lampard has praised the midfielder. During his two years at the club, Mata has won all major competitions like the Champions League.
“He played well, linked the play, put in the ball for the goal. He has been a vital player ever since he came to the cub. His attitude has been first class. Every player understands there is a lot of competition, especially in midfield. If you are not playing, and we have all been there, you have to stay and train well, keep the right attitude. Juan has done that,” said Lampard after the Tottenham match, which left Chelsea in the fourth place.