Lampard hits back at American coach who claims he doubted Pulisic’s talent
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard gave tough love to Christian Pulisic who had a slow start to life in the Premier League.
The American superstar was a £58m signing from Borussia Dortmund, but he didn’t light up the Premier League from the get go. However, he finally got his mojo, and has since been one of the most important players in the team.
Red Bull Salzburg manager Jesse March, had recently revealed that Lampard doubted Pulisic’s ability, as the American coach hinted it was because of his nationality.
However, Lampard has now said that his conversation with the American was misinterpreted.
Lampard said in his press conference: “I did read the comments and I was surprised that Jesse had managed to read my mind as well as he thought he did. He’s recounted the conversation wrong so I have to put it correct. It was a game against Salzburg in pre-season where Christian scored two goals and I spoke to Jesse after about what a talented player he was and how exciting it was to see how he could develop for us with the talent he has. That was the conversation and Jesse managed to put it across slightly differently.
“I played in America for 18 months and I would never underestimate the desire that American players have to learn and improve and take on information and understand the technical side of the game. When you have that, which Christian has, along with incredible talent, it was never in doubt for me.
“It’s clearly the toughest league in the world to come and play in at a young age from a different league. Some of the greatest players in Premier League history have felt that.
“What Christian did was find his feet very quickly and have a breakthrough season where he produced more goals and assists than he has done before so I thought his performance last season was massively impressive and he will keep getting better and I never doubted it in the first place. As a manager, I never doubted him and it’s important for me to put that straight.”