Center-back Antonio Rudiger has claimed he played a key role in Chelsea’s decision to sack Frank Lampard last week.
After five losses in eight Premier League games, including a 3-1 home game against Manchester City, Chelsea decided to release Lampard despite making the top four last season.
After Lampard’s departure, where he was quickly replaced by Thomas Tuchel, rumors quickly emerged that Rüdiger had contributed to Lampard’s dismissal. Some claimed the defender caused problems behind the scenes.
This led the Chelsea duo Cesar Azpilicueta and Tammy Abraham to launch passionate defensive measures against the German international on social media.
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Now, a little over a week after Lampard’s departure, Rudiger has denied claims that he had joined the Blues hierarchy and asked them to fire Lampard. The former Roma had fought for an opportunity to prove his worth this season.
“There have been so many nonsense rumors about me since last week. I’ve never spoken to the board of directors about the coach’s situation or anything else, “Rüdiger told The Athletic .
“Frank Lampard trusted in my abilities after Christmas in a very difficult situation and I was grateful for that. This was also the main reason I told my representatives to stop looking for a possible winter move.
“Unfortunately it wasn’t intended for our team to change things for the coach. We always wanted the best for the manager and the club.”
Since Tuchel’s arrival in west London a week ago, Rüdiger, who was targeted by the German while in charge of Paris Saint-Germain, has started both of his first two responsible games, suggesting that he has a chance at a career to make Stamford Bridge back on track.
Before Tuchel’s arrival, the 27-year-old had only appeared in the Premier League four times this season.
Although Tuchel’s arrival could prove extremely important to Rüdiger’s chances of playing regularly again, the defender insists that there is no bad blood between him and Lampard and advises him to quickly secure a way back into management.
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“He took over the position of manager last season when it was very complicated for all of us. But we managed to qualify for the Champions League together with him, “added Rüdiger.
“He gave so many young first-team players a chance and they are still doing a great job. I’m pretty sure we’ll see Frank Lampard again at another club soon. “
