New Chelsea caretaker manager Frank Lampard has given revealed his plans for midfielder Mason Mount amid transfer interest from Liverpool.
The Blues legend was appointed as caretaker boss until the end of the season on Thursday, and will hope to guide the club to Champions League glory.
During his first stint in charge, Lampard gave a first team opportunity to Mount, who he managed while the future England international was on loan at Derby.
And speaking in his first press conference after being appointed, the ex-Three Lions midfielder clarified Mount's position at the club after he saw little game time in the final weeks of Graham Potter's reign.
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The 24-year-old was forced to withdraw from the latest England squad through injury, and was making his way back to full fitness when Potter was sacked by the club.
Lampard on Mount plans
Lampard explained (via Sky Sports): "Mason has always been a fantastic player for me at Derby and Chelsea.
"I know he's had a few slight injury problems. I need to speak to him and find out where he's at but I know what I get from Mason. He's a huge player for Chelsea.
"Modern-day football has big squads and I understand Chelsea might be at the top end. I remember being here before and having that.
"Maybe in the short-term, that's a positive thing for me because everyone can have a clean slate."
Lampard's comments could prove to be a huge blow to Liverpool and manager Jurgen Klopp, with the Anfield club heavily linked with a move for the midfielder this summer.
Mount recently appointed a new agent, further fuelling rumours that he could be leaving the club this summer.
But if Lampard sees him as a key part of Chelsea's plans moving forward - and keeps the job beyond this season - the 24-year-old could be convinced to commit his long-term future to Stamford Bridge.
Topics: Chelsea, Frank Lampard, Mason Mount, Liverpool
Ryan Smart