Willian is sowing no sign of his age and should be rewarded with a new deal

When Frank Lampard meets his colleagues to discuss Chelsea’s January transfer plans in the coming days, he’ll do well to recognise what he’s already got.

The removal of their transfer ban for next month’s window by the Court of Arbitration for Sport last week arrived as a relief.

Lampard’s been applauded for his commitment to blooding the club’s best academy talent this season. Those risks have paid off emphatically, even though Lampard will be one of the first to admit his hand was forced somewhat due to last summer’s transfer suspension.

Yet, how Chelsea recruit over the next 12 months will inevitably determine exactly what is achievable for Lampard.

Liverpool are so far in front that Lampard, as admirable as his dedication to youth has been thus far, cannot solely rely on dipping into the academy in his attempts to close the gap on the Merseysiders.

Money’s available, to the tune of £150million. Maybe even more if the right players are available.

But when the Chelsea manager discusses targets ahead of January, he should apportion at least some of the money to reward some of the players who have ensured his start to life back at Stamford Bridge has been largely successful.

And one in particular. Towards the end of Maurizio Sarri’s reign, Willian looked to be coasting towards the end of his contract.

The Chelsea forward's deal expires at the end of this season - and as it stands there’s no agreement over an extension.

With Callum Hudson-Odoi the heir apparent to Willian’s No 10 shirt - and his place on the right wing - Chelsea may view extending the Brazilian’s contract as an unnecessary expenditure.

There’s financial logic to that theory. At 31, there can’t be too many quality miles left in the South American - letting him leave in the summer would present an opportunity to save on his £120,000-per-week contract.

But surely Lampard will argue otherwise. Once again last night the winger proved his worth, gift wrapping Tammy Abraham’s opener that put Chelsea on course for the Champions League knockout stages.

Willian was at the heart of Chelsea’s most potent moments against Lille.

Those who have watched Chelsea consistently this season will argue that amongst the encouraging displays of rookies Abraham, Hudson-Odoi, Mason Mount, Fikayo Tomori and Reece James has been the an evergreen Willian showing no sign of his age.