Windass a ‘wind-up’ merchant, says Lampard

FRANK LAMPARD branded Middlesbrough striker Dean Windass a “wind-up” merchant — but said football needs characters like him.

Windass played a physical game at Stamford Bridge and was at the centre of the controversial incident which became the talking point of Chelsea's 1-0 victory over Boro in the FA Cup third round.

Windass bundled Blues goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini into the back of his net following a 62nd-minute free-kick and was booked for the foul. But Cudicini was shown the red card by referee Mark Halsey for allegedly kneeing the striker in the head.

Chelsea promised to appeal against the dismissal, claiming they were backed by video evidence, and midfielder Lampard hoped his Italian team-mate will escape a ban.

"I saw the television replays afterwards and I didn't see Carlo do anything," said Lampard. "The referee told me he kneed Windass in the head, but I've seen it and he doesn't. Before I saw it I would have said Carlo was innocent because he is just not that type of character. He is very upset about it and hopefully the decision will be overturned, especially as he is such an important player for us."

Windass tried to get at Chelsea with his physical presence and Lampard admitted that had not helped Cudicini's cause after the flashpoint, which was spotted by the referee's assistant.

"He wound the situation up a bit but that is the sort of character he is and it is fair enough, that is all part of the game," said Lampard.

"He is the sort who talks back, but I think it is fine to have a bit of character and it lifted the game that is what it is all about, adding a bit of entertainment."

Chelsea, who were beaten in last year's FA Cup final by Arsenal, are determined to go one step further this season, and they booked their place in today's fourth-round draw thanks to Mario Stanic's 38th-minute strike.

Lampard said: "There is confidence in the side and we know we are good enough to beat anyone on our day. This season we have had our day a lot and we want to have it in the FA Cup. This competition creates a good buzz around the place, waiting for the draw to see who you are playing."