Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has explained why Ellis Simms was left out of the squad for Saturday's 1–0 Premier League defeat to Fulham, confirming the striker was fit and available.
The 25-year-old has struggled for regular minutes this season despite scoring as a substitute against Newcastle United.
With Coventry preparing to host Sunderland next weekend, Simms faces further competition from Taiwo Awoniyi and Sidiki Cherif for a place in Lampard's attack.
Lampard explains tactical decision over Simms
Simms was omitted from Coventry's matchday squad against Fulham, with Yann Gboho included among the substitutes.
Asked whether the striker was carrying an injury, Lampard made clear that his decision was based on squad selection.
"No, I just can't pick everybody," the Coventry manager explained.
"I have to cover on the bench at the back and in midfield, on the wings and up front, and it's unfortunate for Ellis."
Lampard nevertheless suggested the omission would not become a regular occurrence.
"It's not going to be every week for Ellis, in fact the opposite," he added.
The former Chelsea midfielder also acknowledged how difficult it can be to leave players out when selecting his matchday squad.
"That's the toughest decision of my job. Trust me, it's the hardest bit."
Simms faces competition for Coventry starting place
Simms has started just one Premier League match this season, playing 70 minutes against Arsenal on the opening weekend.
He has since made substitute appearances against Manchester City, Nottingham Forest and Newcastle, scoring during Coventry's 4–1 victory over the Magpies.
However, Lampard has several attacking options available.
Awoniyi returned from a three-match suspension earlier this month, while Cherif impressed against Newcastle by scoring and winning a penalty.
The teenager retained his starting place against Fulham, with Awoniyi replacing him in the second half.
Simms, meanwhile, was left out after being an unused substitute against Tottenham.
Sunderland fixture offers chance of recall
Coventry were unable to find a breakthrough against Fulham, with Oscar Bobb scoring the visitors' winner in the 80th minute.
The defeat leaves Lampard facing another decision over his attacking line-up ahead of Saturday's meeting with Sunderland.
Simms will hope his goal against Newcastle and performances in training strengthen his case for a recall.
Key Points
- Lampard confirmed Simms was fit despite missing the Fulham match.
- The manager said the omission was a squad-selection decision.
- Simms has started one Premier League game this season.
- Awoniyi and Cherif are competing for attacking opportunities.
- Coventry lost 1–0 to Fulham ahead of their Sunderland fixture.
What's Next?
Coventry host Sunderland on Saturday, 31 October, with kick-off at 3pm UK time.
Lampard must decide whether to retain Cherif, turn to Awoniyi or bring Simms back into his matchday squad.
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