Frank Lampard urged to keep faith in Kepa Arrizabalaga
According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Express), former Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Imanol Etxeberria believes Chelsea must keep faith in under-fire keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The Spaniard looks to be on his way out of the club just two seasons after joining for a world-record fee. His performances have left much to be desired and Frank Lampard is keen to cut his losses.
Etxeberria has questioned Lampard’s judgment and has reiterated his belief that Kepa can compete at the top.
“It usually happens, these things with star signings… Many times, they depend on the results of the team and not the personal side.”
Although the Spaniard’s faith in Kepa is admirable, the results speak for themselves. Not only has the Chelsea goalkeeper failed to perform but has also lacked leadership.
Exteberria believes the pressure of having a massive price tag over his head would have affected Kepa. He has urged Lampard to give him another chance to prove his worth at the Bridge.
“Kepa has amply demonstrated at Athletic, in the Spanish team and in his first year at Chelsea that he is a guaranteed goalkeeper, of a high level.”
He has also gone on to question if Willy Caballero is indeed a better keeper than Kepa. The Argentine took the reins for a number of games as Lampard relegated his number one to the bench.
Kepa has only himself to blame
The debate regarding Caballero is a non-entity that adds an unnecessary dimension to the argument. Given Kepa’s struggles, it is only natural that Lampard turns to his number two.
If anything such a situation could have been avoided had Kepa not struggled to impose himself. Caballero was not preferred because he was better, but rather because Kepa was not good enough.
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It is understandable that some may choose to defend the Spanish international. However, the decision of what to do lies with Lampard.
Kepa has had numerous opportunities to make a mark. His failure to do so is what has gotten him into this mess. There is no room for sentiment at the highest level. If Kepa dreams of being a top-level keeper, then he has to realise that his performances must do the talking.