Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta says manager Frank Lampard is eager to play the kids.

Lampard kicked off his reign here last night with a 1-1 draw in a pre-season friendly against Bohemians.

The former midfielder selected two completely different XIs for each half, and a common theme throughout was the presence of youngsters.

Azpilicueta said: “He is very keen to give opportunities to the younger players.

"All the senior players, we are happy and we are trying to help all of them.

“Frank knows the young players very well. His staff have been working with a lot of youngsters through the years.

"We have the best academy in England and, obviously, it is a chance for all of them to step up and to see them in the first team."