Frank Lampard says John Terry has been a positive influence on Chelsea this season

Frank Lampard says John Terry has been a credit to himself and has been a positive influence on Chelsea this season.

Terry has made only five Premier League appearances this season, has not started since mid-September and has not played at all since November in the top flight.

Speaking on Goals on Sunday, Lampard also says he knows the defender has been training hard behind the scenes at Cobham and has not kicked up a fuss about his lack of playing time.

"Is he happy? Well, yes and no, he's obviously not happy because we know what John is like, he wants to play, but I actually spoke to him a couple of days ago at the training ground.

"I said to him what a credit he is, the way he's been this year. With his age, and his stature at the club, he could either sit back, not travel and just look to the future, kick up and fuss or whatever.

"But he's trained hard, all the time, and I know that from behind the scenes."

Live Nissan Super Sunday

Terry's contract is up in the summer, and though he is not playing, Lampard believes his influence around the club should not be underplayed.

"He's travelled up north to games when he's injured or not in the squad, and I don't think you can underplay the influence John is having behind the scenes there this season.

"He's been a real credit to himself this year."

Conte said earlier this season that Terry has been helping him a lot, though there is no indication he will be signed up for another year

The Italian said in February: "He's helping me a lot, and I'm very pleased to have him in my squad and also to know this type of person."

Sky customers can now upgrade to Sky Sports and get 12 months for just £18 per month. Upgrade now!