Valencia 1 Chelsea 1: Lampard returns with goal

The England midfielder had started three of the previous four matches on the bench, with his recall appearing further proof he is now being held back for the big games.

Lampard looked to have scored a trademark winner that would have put the visitors in complete command of Group E, but was off the pitch when Valencia levelled.

Manager Andre Villas-Boas brought Lampard off for Salomon Kalou with seven minutes remaining, and the new man immediately conceded a penalty which Roberto Soldado converted.

Lampard said: “I always want to play, that’s a given. I’ve been like that throughout my career.

“I love playing for this club. I am very proud of playing here.

“I’ve had knocks before in my career... it makes me worker harder to come back.”

Of last night’s game he added: “The second half had really opened up.

“Qualification games in the group stage can be slightly bland at times but this was more exciting.

“You have to find a middle ground of protecting your lead and playing attractive stuff.

“From our point of view it was a good performance although disappointing to lose that lead.”