Frank Lampard defends Kai Havertz after fresh criticism following Chelsea defeat by Everton
Havertz was replaced for the fifth successive game as he failed to make an impact in the 1-0 defeat
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has warned the critics to lay off Kai Havertz after another disappointing display from the £71m new signing.
The Germany international was withdrawn after 68 minutes of the 1-0 defeat at Everton, the fourth successive game he has been substituted, after failing to have any impact against makeshift left-back Ben Godfrey.
But Lampard has jumped to the defence of the 21-year-old.
"In the modern day there is going to be criticism for every player of every club who loses a game," said the former Blues midfielder.
"We should be patient with Havertz from a Chelsea end because he is a top-quality talent who has come into this league.
READ MORE: Chelsea title bid dealt setback at Everton
"He can play in any position across the front three and he has played on the right countless times before he played for Chelsea.
"But we have to be patient, particularly with any young player playing in the speed of the Premier League.
"People who want to jump on to criticise (should) just wait and give a young player time. I know the player that Kai Havertz is going to be."
Lampard was keen to use the loss at Goodison Park as a reality check.
"This will be a challenge for the players," he added.
"In the Premier League you are going to lose games and it is important to put perspective on it.
"The game was the game. I'm not going to say I learned anything in one game necessarily."
PA
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments