His mother is seriously ill. He is apparently devoted to her and she has been a big influence on his life and career. At least he has pulled on a shirt and given it a go. How would you play if your mother was at death's door? I suspect not at 100% and not at your best. I think he has to be commended for turning out in the first place.
Poor lad. It great dedication to his club that he has gone to work. They take a lot of stick, modern footballers, 'cause of all the money and that - but money can't buy you everything. Never did think that Lampard was as good as Gerrard though.