Lampard says Chelsea cannot afford to lose Thiago Silva

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard believes it’s crucial to see Thiago Silva stay next season.

While he recently signed a new 12 month contract, the veteran defender is a confirmed target for Fluminense.

Lampard said after victory at Bournemouth: “Thiago is a credit in all aspects.

“He’s a classy, brilliant player. His career says it. He’s also brilliant at looking after himself to play at this level. He’s 38. I was in the MLS by that point. Especially as a centre-back, to play in the Premier League, what he must be doing with his body.

“He’s also got a great mind and he’s got a winning mentality, so he would have been suffering a bit recently because he feels it and he wears it and he’s a great reference point for the young centre-backs we’ve got in the team around him. I’ve got nothing but praise for Thiago in all aspects.”