Kante and Willian ARE fit enough for Chelsea’s squad for the FA Cup final, reveals Frank Lampard

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard confirmed that Kante and Willian are available for their FA Cup final against Arsenal but Ruben Loftus-Cheek will miss out due to injury.

The news provides a boost to their midfield and attacking ranks despite Loftus-Cheek picking up a minor setback. 

‘Kante and Willian are in the squad and we will see if they are fit enough to be involved. Ruben Loftus-Cheek picked up a small problem,’ Lampard said in his pre-match press conference.

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard confirmed Kante and Willian are fit enough for squad selection

They provide a boost to their midfield and attacking ranks despite Loftus-Cheek missing out

Willian could play his last match for Chelsea, with the Brazilian’s current deal with the Blues over after the FA Cup final.

The 31-year-old has had several offers from Premier League and European clubs as well as an MLS club believed to be David Beckham’s Inter Miami. 

Lampard praised Willian for remaining professional in the closing stages of the season despite the uncertainty around his future.

‘I’ve known Willian for many years as a player and I have coached him. If anyone wants to know the mentality of him then that has been shown since restart,’ the Chelsea boss explained.

Chelsea are preparing for their FA Cup final with Arsenal at Wembley Stadium on August 1

He also addressed his goalkeeper situation, with natural first-choice Kepa Arrizabalaga losing his place in recent weeks to Willy Caballero. 

Kepa, who joined Chelsea for a world-record fee for a goalkeeper, appears to be unsettled at Stamford Bridge and has been linked with a move back to Spain.

Ahead of his selection dilemma, Lampard said: ‘It is difficult because we have competition in the squad, as you have seen I have felt at times that we had or needed to change it. 

‘We look at what the strongest we can be. In big games like this, it can be that much more difficult.’ 

Arsenal reached the final after a shock defeat against favourites Manchester City. A brace from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was enough as the Gunners defence held strong against the City onslaught. 

Former Chelsea defender David Luiz impressed during the semi-final despite having a turbulent time of late in Mikel Arteta’s side. 

When asked about whether he has looked at targeting Luiz as a potential chink the Arsenal armour, Lampard replied ‘No, I certainly haven’t I look at Arsenal has a collective and however we prepare remains private. 

‘I have respect for David and the bond we had to win the Champions League in 2012 is huge. I know how good David can be.’