Lampard: FA Cup would be ideal boost
CHELSEA vs. EVERTON
CHELSEA’S Frank Lampard insists FA Cup glory is the least they deserve for their rapid improvement under Guus Hiddink.Dutchman Hiddink’s tenure as temporary manager will come to an end after tomorrow’s season-ending Wembley showpiece against Everton.
The erstwhile Russia coach has transformed the Blues from no-hopers to challengers for three trophies since taking charge in February.
The Premier League proved beyond them while their European challenge ended in controversy, to Lampard’s enduring irritation. But capturing the FA Cup would avoid a second successive season without silverware – a scenario the England midfielder is anxious to avoid.
“It’s very important we win something for the confidence of the club and take something away from the season,” said Lampard.“It was hard to miss out on the Champions League, but as you get a bit older you realise you can’t win everything.
“Our form since Guus Hiddink took over has been championship-winning form, and we only didn’t go to the Champions League final because of things that happened on the night against Barcelona. Our performance over the last five months has set the standard.”
Hiddink’s opposite number, Everton boss David Moyes, praised the former Australia coach’s influence, but insisted other managers could have done just as well. “Hiddink has done terrific wherever he’s been,” said Moyes. “He’s come in and done a great job at Chelsea in a short time but let’s be fair, Chelsea’s players are good players and I think a lot of people could have taken on the Chelsea job and done a good job.”
Chelsea will start as favourites but Moyes, having seen of Manchester United in the semi-finals and achieved back-to-back fifth-place finishes, fancies his chances of upsetting another of the so-called Big Four.
“Before the semi-final I said we’re due to win something soon, and that doesn’t change for me,” he added. “This is undoubtedly the best Everton team I’ve had. There is a great team spirit here, it’s very much team-orientated rather than individuals.”