In the latest episode of COPA90’s “FIFA and Chill” interview series, Frank Lampard sits down for a very interesting chat (and a very brief game of FIFA 18) that you can see in full above. As the two hosts of the show point out, this is one of the best episodes in this series — given his punditry career, Lampard’s certainly comfortable in front of a camera these days — and one you wish would not end in just 17 minutes.
Still, that’s plenty of time to delve into several hard-hitting topics, with perhaps the most interesting of all being Lampard’s ... frank ... discussion of his rivalries, friendships, and working relationships with the likes of Gerrard, Scholes, and other England colleagues. Much of that was well documented at the time, but Lampard’s assessment of the various groups and cliques within the England squad and how that may have affected their performances ultimately is certainly telling. It may not be the full story of why England never reached their full potential in Lampard’s prime years, but it’s a glimpse into the possible issues and pressure that the players faced.
Other than England, Lampard delves a bit into Mourinho’s impact on his career and The Special One’s methods both in public and behind the scenes, while also rueing the lack of an “Old Guard” spine at Chelsea.
The full interview is great as Frank is genuine and forthcoming with his answers. It’s well worth your time.