Frank Lampard explains decision to DROP N’Golo Kante from squad in second managerial debut for Chelsea vs Wolves

FRANK LAMPARD has revealed why N'Golo Kante was dropped from Chelsea's team in the loss to Wolves.

Kante had a starring role as Chelsea drew 0-0 with Liverpool in midweek.

But Lampard, who is back at Chelsea as caretaker manager, opted not to play Kante for the Blues visit to Wolves.

On the decision, Lampard said the injury-prone Frenchman was being "rested".

He explained: "We have to protect a couple of the players in the squad."

Kante missed the majority of the season with a hamstring injury before returning last week against Aston Villa.

It means now-axed boss Graham Potter did not have the chance to utilise arguably his best ball-winner throughout his tenure.

Mason Mount had been expected to play a role in Lampard's first game after returning from his own injury issues.

However, an aggravation in training on Friday meant he was unable to even make the bench for the trip to Wolves.

On Mount, Lampard said: "Mason has always been a fantastic player for me.

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"I know he's had a few injury problems so it'll be important for me to speak to him about that and find out where he's at.

"It’s an absolute pleasure to watch him, and other players like Reece James, Tammy Abraham and [Fikayo] Tomori to go on and be huge players here or elsewhere.

"But I know what I get from Mason. I just want to see him perform on the pitch.

"We have a good relationship. We talk a lot. He’s been a huge player for Chelsea."

Kante's impact was missed in the midfield as Chelsea lost the game thanks to a Matheus Nunes thunderbolt.

The Blues' next game following this will be a Champions League clash against current holders Real Madrid.