Why sell Tomori? Lampard responds to angry Chelsea fans

Carlo Garganese

• Updated: 19 May 2021 15:43 BST
• 1 min read

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says that Fikayo Tomori will develop into a “top player” despite allowing the defender to join AC Milan.

The English defender signed for Milan this week on loan until the end of the season, with the Rossoneri possessing the option to sign the 23-year-old permanently.

The move has angered many Chelsea fans, who believe that the academy graduate is the most promising centre back at the club.

“I have five centre-backs and I can’t do this job and expect to please every fan; that’s football,” the under-pressure Lampard sniped ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup game against Luton Town on Sunday.

“What players you should pick or not, whether you are searching for consistency or going on an unbeaten run there are questions.

“I have to pick two at a time and the numbers don’t always add up.

“Fikayo is a developing player, a very good player. He is going to be a top player.”

Meanwhile, Milan transfer director Frederic Massara expressed his delight at the signing of Tomori.

“We had to fight with Chelsea to get a buy option for Tomori… but we’re so happy because he’s a strong player who can help us so much. He’s an amazing talent,” Massara said. Tomori watched on from the bench on Saturday as Serie A leaders Milan fell to a heavy 3-0 home defeat to Atalanta.