Frank Lampard has praised Eberechi Eze’s professionalism following Arsenal’s Champions League draw against Bayern Munich, using the midfielder’s attitude as an example for his own players.
The Coventry City manager highlighted Eze’s response to recent selection decisions while discussing the importance of maintaining high standards among players who are not guaranteed regular starts.
Eze came off the bench to score Arsenal’s opening goal in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at the Allianz Arena after replacing the injured Bukayo Saka.
The England international had also been substituted at half-time during Arsenal’s previous Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest.
However, Lampard believes the midfielder’s willingness to remain prepared demonstrates the mentality required to succeed at the highest level.
Speaking during his latest press conference, the former Chelsea midfielder drew comparisons between Eze and Coventry winger Gustavo Hamer, who has impressed him with his attitude despite increased competition for places.
“I just sat and watched Arsenal, Eze last night, and I watched him come on and score a goal with Bayern Munich,” Lampard said. “I watched him come off at half-time against Forest. This is the world that we live in.”
Lampard stressed that players must remain committed even when their immediate circumstances are frustrating, pointing to Eze’s contribution as evidence of the rewards.
“I think the best players act like Gus is acting at the moment and support his teammates and do all the right things,” he added.
The Coventry manager explained that Hamer had requested additional playing time and continued to demonstrate an excellent attitude in training.
He believes such professionalism eventually creates opportunities, even when the benefits are not immediately apparent.
Eze’s performance against Bayern provided a timely illustration of that principle after his early introduction transformed Arsenal’s attacking approach.
The 28-year-old opened the scoring with a composed finish from Martin Odegaard’s pass, although Bayern responded through Alphonso Davies and Harry Kane.
Declan Rice subsequently secured a point with a late equaliser, preserving Arsenal’s unbeaten start to their Champions League campaign.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has regularly emphasised the importance of contributions from substitutes as his squad compete across multiple competitions.
Eze’s goal also represented his second consecutive Champions League appearance on the scoresheet.
For Lampard, the midfielder’s ability to respond positively to setbacks reinforced the value of maintaining the right attitude regardless of selection decisions.
His comments underline how Eze’s influence extends beyond his technical ability, with his approach now being held up as an example elsewhere in English football.