Frank Lampard brushed off the inevitable focus on ‘Spygate’ ahead of his first Premier League meeting with Marcelo Bielsa when Chelsea face Leeds on Saturday.
“It was a great news story, it had a lot to it, and it’s gone” Lampard told his press conference.
“I’m absolutely not concerned about what lesson he’s learnt or not” he went on, focusing on his respect for the Argentinian.
A win takes Chelsea top and the 2000 fans returning to Stamford Bridge is “a huge deal” which “can help us” according to Lampard.
He has the luxury of a fully fit squad but refused to guarantee four-goal Olivier Giroud a start while admitting: “playing like he did the other night, clearly he’s going to get opportunities.”
Bielsa, who is without Pablo Hernandez, Jamie Shackleton and Adam Foreshaw, also refused to be drawn on Lampard, saying:
“The relationship I have with him is similar to the ones I have with the rest of my colleagues.”
Diego Llorente is fit for Leeds but may not yet make his debut.
Patrick Bamford, who made no appearances in five years at Chelsea, will be looking to end their unbeaten streak at eight.
Predicted Score – 3-2
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Sub-Edited by Marcus Otty
