Lampard backs Chelsea youngster to play for England

Frank Lampard believes Mason Mount‘s loan move to Derby can help the Chelsea youngster break into the England reckoning.

The 19-year-old midfielder was invited to train with the senior England squad prior to them flying out to Russia for this summer’s World Cup.

Mount impressed while on loan at Vitesse Arnhem last season, winning the Eredivisie side’s player of the year award after contributing 14 goals and 11 assists.

And Chelsea legend Lampard, who took over as Derby boss this summer, has no doubt that Mount has a bright future ahead of him.

“I’m aware that England are aware of him; I know he trained pre-World Cup with the squad,” said Lampard.

“I know (England assistant manager) Steve Holland pretty well, I speak to Steve and I know Mason is on the radar and so now it’s up to him.

“This is why this is such a good platform for him because we are always crying out in England for talented midfielders that can link play, are intelligent and score goals. I think Mason can have a big future.”

Mount has already caught the eye during pre-season and scored a fine goal in a 2-1 win over Premier League newcomers Wolves in a friendly.

“He can offer us a lot, and I think we can offer Mason a lot as well,” said Lampard.

“This is a great platform for him to play, at this club he’s going to get the pressure of 30,000 people at home games and travelling round in a difficult Championship, so that’s great grounding and work for him.

“What he can bring us is good quality and energy; we’ve seen it from the moment he worked through the door and he’s done it in a top European league.

“I knew him from the Chelsea youth team and I know that Mason has the right mentality, which is another one of his massive strengths.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for him to really show the world, and England, what he can do in the Championship.”