Lampard urges England to recall Abraham as striker considers Nigeria interest

Abraham, who has scored seven goals in his last three games, has already been capped by England at senior level. But, as his one cap came in a friendly against Brazil in 2017, he could still switch allegiance to Nigeria and recently admitted he could be tempted by a Super Eagles call-up.

London-born Abraham is eligible for Nigeria through his parents and Lampard says interest from the African nation is inevitable. 

“He has put himself in the bracket for England by being the top scorer at this point so it’s one for Gareth [England manager Gareth Southgate]. I wouldn’t want to step on his toes but it’s clear from what Tammy is doing he will be wanted.”

Abraham, 21, has silenced the early doubts about his Premier League quality with his recent goal spree and is now preparing for his Champions League debut against Valencia this night.

Lampard added: “I never had any clear expectations for him only the fact I believed in him and trusted him.

“I know a lot has been made of the ban and giving young players potential opportunities but I felt the time was right for Tammy to have his opportunity at this club anyway because of the quality he has got.

“I’m really delighted he has got his goals. I think there is more to come. So he is in a good place.

“He just needs to sustain and improve even more and with his mentality every day and the way he is I hope to see that.”
Chelsea will be without Antonio Rudiger and Emerson for their Group H opener against their Spanish visitors this night.
Rudiger came off at half-time in his comeback game against Wolves on Saturday after aggravating a groin problem.

He will have a scan this afternoon, with Lampard hoping it is not long-term having only just got the defender back following knee surgery. Left-back Emerson is still sidelined due to a thigh problem.

N’Golo Kante, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Reece James all took part in Chelsea training yesterday but remain short of match fitness.