Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez was asked yesterday to compare Frank Lampard with his former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Lampard's importance to the side is clear and similar to the role played by Gerrard during the Spaniard's time at the Liverpool helm.

"In terms of liking to score goals and their timing getting into the box is really good, that's their similarity," Benitez said.

"Both are offensive midfielders who can score every game. They can take penalties, free-kicks and can still score in open play. They are two great players.

"It's important to have these kind of players, they are good professionals, who train properly and stay fit. He's doing that so I have to manage him."