Lampard praises players after Chelsea victory

Video: HaytersTV

Frank Lampard praised Olivier Giroud and Marcos Alonso after they scored in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Tottenham.

Giroud, playing in the absence of the injured Tammy Abraham, put the Blues ahead early on.

And Alonso, who was also recalled to the side by boss Lampard, doubled the lead and later hit the bar with a free-kick.

It was an emphatic return to the team for the experienced duo, who were widely tipped to leave Stamford Bridge during last month’s transfer window.

“I’m delighted for them both because it’s not easy when they’re not playing regularly,” said Lampard.

“Ollie has got his fitness (issues) and you can see there that 70 minutes is tough for him. But what you do get with him is quality – you know his attributes.

“You know that you can find him and that he’ll bring people into the game. And then you know he can finish.

“Obviously Marcos’ finish was top drawer as well. So I’m really pleased.

“That’s what a squad needs. You need to trust that both of them will be good professionals – and both of them have been in all ways. I’m delighted for them.”

The win was a massive boost for Chelsea in their pursuit of a top-four finish.

It put them four points clear of fifth-placed Spurs, who pulled a goal back late on when Erik Lamela’s shot deflected in off Antonio Rudiger.

“That gave us a nervous few minutes but the performance levels of the team and attitude – I can’t ask for anything more,” Lampard said.

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