Chelsea’s veteran midfielder Frank Lampard has called upon the Barclays Premier League for greater protection for English clubs playing in the Champions League, and the UEFA Europa League.
Lampard’s side face Fulham at Craven Cottage, in a West London derby on Saturday, just 72 hours after they drew 1-1 in Istanbul against Galatasaray.
However, the experienced 35 year old has called upon the powers that be to give Champions League sides special treatment before games in Europe.
Lampard wants the Premier League to switch some games to a Friday night, like they do in the German Bundesliga, or the Italian Serie A, to help sides prepare for up and coming Champions League games.
“It’s not ideal,” Lampard told the Daily Mail. “We don’t expect any favours and certainly know we won’t get them. It’s about resting up and getting ready to go.
“I don’t know about the Premier League but other countries seem to look after their teams representing them in the Champions League. I’m not sure we do so much here.
“I’m not trying to get one over on other Premier League teams, it just seems a general rule. There could be a bit of common sense if you are getting back at 6am (on Thursday).”
However, despite his frustration, Lampard backed the title-chasing Chelsea squad to cope with the rigours of their schedule.
“We can’t moan, we’ve got a fantastic squad with fit young players,” he added. “We have to get on with it.”
By Ben Reardon
@BenReardon1
