First Frank Lampard and his team surprised kids and their families at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, a short walk from Stamford Bridge, where they handed over presents, signed autographs and posed for selfies on the children’s wards.

Captain Cesar Azpilicueta believes it is a vital contribution from footballers during the festive period.

He said: ‘For us it is very important to share in this time of the year which is very important for the kids. Christmas is approaching and it is nice to spend time with the kids and with the families, to cheer them up a bit and also they cheer us with the support and the way they love Chelsea Football Club.

‘It is very nice and it is amazing for us as well as an experience to spend this time in the hospital.’