Frank Lampard dropped Willian for Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City because of the Brazilian’s reaction to his failed Barcelona move, according to reports.
The Spanish champions were reportedly lining up a late bid for the 31-year-old in the January transfer window.
However, the transfer did not martialise and the Brazil international will now be staying at Stamford Bridge for the remainder of the season.
According to The Sun, Willian ‘went through the motions in training’ after he realised he would not be joining Barcelona and Lampard subsequently decided to start Pedro for Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Leicester City instead.
Willian started the game on the bench but was brought on with 16 minutes remaining as Chelsea pushed for the winning goal.
The report claims that Chelsea are hoping that Willian ‘gets his head straight’ during the winter break after ‘sulking’ over his failed move.
Willian’s current contract with Chelsea expires at the end of the season but negotiations have taken place over an extension.
The Brazilian has played a key role in Lampard’s first season as Chelsea manager with four goals and four assists in 24 appearances.
Lampard also paid a special tribute to Willian earlier this season by claiming that the midfielder had been his side’s ‘best player’ in five consecutive matches.
