Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has confirmed that Mason Mount will be an important part of his first-team squad this season.

The 20-year-old has featured prominently during pre-season so far and speaking after the Blues’ 1-0 defeat to Kawasaki Frontale yesterday, Lampard said he expects Mount to play a big role under his management:

“Mason’s part of the first-team squad this year and it’s time for him. His qualities will improve even more with the qualities around him.”

“Everyone knows the hopes I have for Mason and he showed today a glimmer early in pre-season of what we might see this year and going forward.”

Mount was excellent on loan for Derby last campaign, playing under Lampard, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists in 44 appearances for the Rams. He will now be hoping that he can step up a level and perform in the Premier League.

The attacking midfielder will, though, have to battle for a place in the starting line up with the likes of Ross Barkley, Mateo Kovacic, N’Golo Kante and Jorginho all competing for central midfield roles.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s absence due to an Achilles injury at the start of the season should, however, give Mount more opportunities to impress in the first-team setup.