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Grieving Lampard to miss Chelsea-United showdown

25/04/2008

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard will miss his side's title showdown with Manchester United match on Saturday after his mother Pat passed away.

A statement released yesterday on behalf of the player by his representatives revealed the sad news, although no indication of the England international's availability was given at the time.

However, sources have now confirmed that Blues manager Avram Grant is not considering Lampard to be available for the must-win clash at Stamford Bridge tomorrow.

The England midfielder was unavailable last week to attend his mother's bedside after she was rushed to hospital with pneumonia.

Lampard told the press earlier this week that he believed his mother's condition was improving, so the news that broke on Thursday came as something of a shock.

"It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that Pat Lampard passed away this afternoon," the statement explained.

"Frank would like to acknowledge and say thank you for the compassion shown to him by the manager Avram Grant and all the staff at Chelsea Football Club during what has been a terribly traumatic period for him and his family.

"Frank and his family would also like to thank all the people that have been inundating them with wishes of support."

Chelsea are entering a crucial few days that could decide their fate this season.

They face United in what is effectively a Premier League title decider at tomorrow before hosting Liverpool in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday.