Former Liverpool captain Phil Thompson says Chelsea boss Frank Lampard made a statement with the sale of David Luiz to Arsenal.

The 32-year-old was a regular starter for the Blues last season, making 50 appearances in all competitions.

However, Lampard still allowed Luiz to leave, despite not being able to bring in a replacement due to the club's transfer ban.

“I think Frank has made a massive statement here," Thompson said on Sky Sports.

“I think he's made the right judgement doing what he's done.

“It's a big call for such a young manager.

“But I think he's seen him in there, possibly being disruptive, and 'I can't have this and I need to do this straight away'.

“And when that chance has come, and what happened with Arsenal very late on, I think he's seen this as a fantastic opportunity."