An influx of youthful midfield signings will not stop veteran Frank Lampard from trying to keep his place in the Chelsea line-up.
Roberto Di Matteo has signed Eden Hazard, Marko Marin, Oscar and Thorgan Hazard so far this summer to add to the already bulging midfield stocks including Lampard, Michael Essien, Raul Meireles, Yossi Benayoun, Ramires and John Obi Mikel.
Although some of those players won't be competing directly with central midfielder Lampard, the England international knows it is going to be very tough to consistently win a spot in the Blues starting eleven next season.
"Every year it gets harder because every year we bring in players," the 34-year old told the club's official website.
"But I remember being 25 and we brought in four or five midfielders one summer. I wondered if I would be in the team and I played about 60 games.
"I have had a great career here and I wouldn't want the club to stand still.
"The club needs to move forward and bringing in quality midfield players is brilliant.
"Personally, I've had a long break this summer. Missing the Euros was disappointing but it gave me the chance to rest and come back with all guns blazing."
