It was announced on Tuesday that the pair will be allowed to feature for the Blues this season beyond 30 June, the date their original contracts were due to expire, meaning they will be available for our remaining Premier League fixtures as well as any future involvement in the FA Cup and Champions League.

In his customary pre-match press conference, now taking place with journalists via video call, Lampard revealed he was always hopeful a deal would be reached and explained how important the players will be in helping the team achieve their targets in the final six weeks of the season.

‘Negotiations were relatively easy because both sides wanted the same thing,’ said the boss.

‘It was hard for me to comment too much before it was announced yesterday but I always felt confident that they would remain.

‘The two players wanted to make sure they could see the season out with us and at this point we need them in the squad because they’re both important players for us so I’m happy.

‘They’ve been fantastic professionals for the club and servants in all senses and when you have that level of professionalism within you it was a sign that they wanted to stay and see out this season at least.

'We’ll carry on talking and see but I think everybody’s focus now is on these next games for the individuals themselves and obviously us as a club.’

Willian and Pedro’s longer-term futures at the club was also a subject addressed by Lampard, who insisted talks remain ongoing.

‘We’re still talking with the players and with Willian in particular we’re talking with him,’ continued Lampard

‘I don’t really want to get into talking about beyond this season. I want Willian to play his best football for the next nine or whatever games it is depending on our cup runs and that’s it.

‘Behind the scenes we will talk. I get on very well with Willian himself and so do the club so we’ll see what happens.’

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We would like to remind supporters that rescheduled games for the rest of the season will be played behind closed doors. Fans will not be admitted to the stadiums and for our home games, the whole Stamford Bridge site will be closed to the public.

The games can be followed via TV coverage, or audio and text commentaries on this website or the 5th Stand app. There will also be updates on the club's social media channels.