Frank Lampard wants Matej Vydra to stay

Derby County manager Frank Lampard has highlighted his ambition to keep hold of Matej Vydra amid the speculation surrounding the Czech international. The 26-year-old was the Ram’s highest scorer last season with 21 goals in the Championship and Lampard is eager for the player for the stay put beyond the summer.

Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “There is a lot of speculation but he is still our player.We will see, but while he performs as well as he did last year, with the level of goals, I expect him to stay.” Meanwhile, Lampard confirmed that Vydra would play no part against Notts County in the maiden pre-season game after failing to recover from a groin problem, he added:“Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to train with us. But he should be integrating back with the squad next week and then I will look at him. He is a top-quality player, without a doubt, and if he is here then that's great for us.”

Derby have struggled to secure a return to the Premier League since their dismal campaign back in 2007/08 and during this period, they have managed to reach the playoffs on many occasions only to come short at the final hurdle. As a result, Lampard has a huge task on his hands to propel the club back to the top-flight and the next few weeks could give a fair reflection over how they could proceed.

The Rams have yet to make a signing under new boss Lampard and they have been plenty of players who have been shown the exit door. Andreas Weimann was been allowed to make the move to Bristol City during the transfer window whilst the likes of Chris Baird, Darren Bent, and Jason Shackell have been released at the expiry of their respective contracts.