Scolari confident Lampard will stay

LONDON // The new Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari said today that Frank Lampard would remain at Chelsea for this season and beyond, underlining the club's refusal to consider any offers for the England midfielder. Speaking at his first news conference since taking the Chelsea post, Scolari said he had spoken to Lampard and received assurances the player was still committed to the London club. "I think Chelsea needs Lampard and Lampard needs Chelsea," the Brazilian told reporters. "I think Lampard will be with us (for) more time than one (more) year." A statement on the club website earlier in the day stated that the Blues told Inter Milan they are not prepared to consider any approach for the player. The Stamford Bridge club confirmed they had received an approach from the Italian champions but denied reports that an offer had been made for Lampard, 30, who has 12 months remaining on his contract.

The Chelsea statement said: "Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has received an official approach from Internazionale to discuss the possible transfer of Frank Lampard. Contrary to reports no financial offer was made. "Chelsea FC has informed Inter this morning that we will not enter into any discussions regarding the transfer of Frank Lampard." Inter have made no official comment although their manager Jose Mourinho has made no secret of his desire to sign Lampard who flourished under the Portuguese's tutelage during his three years at the Chelsea helm.

*Reuters