Frank Lampard insists Tammy Abraham has fully earned his place in Chelsea’s starting line-up but needs to maintain his recent form and keep progressing.
The England international striker scored his first goals for the club in the thrilling 3-2 win over Norwich last Saturday, helping Lampard to his first victory as Blues boss.
Abraham has started two of the three Premier League matches so far this season and came off the bench in the 1-1 draw with Leicester City.
But the 21-year-old is vying for a starting spot with French World Cup-winner Olivier Giroud and Belgium international Michy Batshuayi.
“There’s competition up front and I’m not playing young players just for the sake of it,” Lampard said.
“Tammy’s playing at the minute because he deserves it but he’ll have to continue deserving it.”
Abraham’s double against the Canaries means he is almost certain to lead the attack in Saturday’s home game against Sheffield United.
Lampard said it is not just the forward’s talent that has impressed him.
“He has this character which is enthusiastic and is a people person,” Lampard added. “The players love him. He trains with a smile on his face but also a work ethic.
“In terms of what I see… and the competition for places and trying to get in to the first 11, I can’t complain. He’s been brilliant.
“That must stay and improve all the time now.”
Abraham scored 26 goals on loan with Championship side Bristol City in 2016-17 and grabbed eight goals in 21 starts while with Swansea City in the Premier League the following campaign.
He returned to the second tier last season, scoring another 26 goals as Aston Villa won promotion via the play-offs.
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