Coventry City coach Frank Lampard has praised Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka for making a strong impression since his winter arrival, describing the player’s contribution as significant both on and off the pitch.

Onyeka joined Coventry City from Brentford on transfer deadline day in February and has featured in all four matches played by the Championship leaders since his arrival, helping the team maintain a positive run of form.

Speaking to BBC CWR, Lampard explained the club’s decision to sign the Super Eagles midfielder due to his Premier League experience.

“When we recruited him the playing profile was different as we are quite light on Premier League experience,” Lampard said. 

He further noted the difference in exposure within the squad, adding that “not many of our players have been exposed to the Premier League, some other Championship teams have lots of exposure to the Premier League.”

Lampard highlighted Onyeka’s experience and professionalism as key qualities benefiting the squad.

“So there's an experience about it, a knowhow in his game but he's been a big impact on and off the pitch for us,” he said. 

The former Chelsea manager also praised Onyeka’s attitude since joining the team.

“His professionalism is really good and he's clearly come in and helped our upturn in recent weeks,” Lampard added.

The Coventry City coach also provided an update on Onyeka’s fitness after the midfielder sustained a knock during Coventry City’s 2-1 victory over Stoke City last weekend in the English Championship. 

Lampard confirmed that the player remains in contention for the next league fixture but requires further assessment.

“He hasn't trained much but he'll train today (Friday) and we'll see how he is,” he said.

Coventry City will now shift focus to their upcoming Championship match against Bristol City on Saturday, where Onyeka’s availability will be monitored ahead of the encounter.

The club will hope to maintain their winning momentum as the season progresses while assessing the midfielder’s fitness following his recent knock.

Wale Adejumo