Frank Lampard is expecting Matej Vydra to remain a Derby County player this summer, despite speculation linking the forward with a move away from Pride Park.  

Leeds United have been long-term admirers of Vydra, who was the Championship’s top goalscorer last season.

However, a move to Elland Road is yet to materialise, and now, West Bromwich Albion are also interested in offering the 26-year-old a route out of Derby this summer.

Lampard, 40, is at risk of losing Vydra, but has delivered a defiant message on his forward, with the Derby boss claiming that he expects Vydra to still be a part of his squad during the 2018/19 campaign.

When asked by the Derby Telegraph if he expects Vydra to be around next season, Lampard replied: “At the moment, yes, because he is our player.

"We will see what happens but while he is here, while he performs as well as he did last year, then of course I expect him to stay.

"There is a lot of speculation but it doesn't change the fact he is still our player.”

The Czech forward was amongst the Championship’s standout performers last season, scoring 22 goals in total and helping Derby reach the play-offs in May.

Vydra’s form over the last 12 months has seen him attract heavy interest from Leeds, with Marcelo Bielsa identifying the forward as a major target.

However, Leeds’ interest cooled this week, with the Whites not willing to pay Vydra what he was demanding in wages on top of the hefty transfer fee.

Currently, Vydra is reportedly struggling with a groin problem.

The Verdict  

Lampard’s in a tough situation, where he has to try and remain positive over Vydra, who could still be on his way.

Of course, the forward is still currently a Derby player, and Lampard needs to plan with him in the side, but it does appear that if a concrete offer goes Vydra’s way, he will take it.

It’s hard to imagine that Vydra’s future is set in stone.

Where will Vydra be playing his football next season? Let us know your thoughts!