Chelsea dismiss claims Lampard will miss the big kick-off

CHELSEA have scotched speculation that England midfielder Frank Lampard is set to miss the start of the season with a broken toe.

Lampard has featured in all Chelsea’s pre-season matches despite suffering a minor injury during their stay at an American training camp.

The England midfielder has not missed a single training session since collecting the knock and is set to play a major part in Sunday’s FA Community Shield showdown with Manchester United.

A Chelsea statement read: “Contrary to speculation, Frank Lampard has only suffered a minor injury – sustained over three weeks ago whilst training in Los Angeles. The injury has not required any pain-killing injections nor affected Frank’s ability to play or to take part in any one of Chelsea’s training sessions.”

Chelsea issued the statement to counter suggestions that the England midfielder, yet to sign a new contract with the club, would miss the start of the new season.

Lampard is expected to play a pivotal role in Chelsea’s midfield against United on Sunday and the confirmation that his injury is of a minor nature came just hours after the club revealed that Brazilian defender Alex has been granted a work permit.

The defender had hoped to discuss personal terms last Sunday but he opted to fly home even though he was eventually cleared to enter the country.

He will now return to Britain to discuss a contract and undergo a medical.

A Chelsea spokesperson said: “At a hearing today, Alex was granted a work permit. He still has to agree personal terms with Chelsea Football Club and have a medical.”