Agreed. The fact both Pellegrini, Mancini & the last 2-3 England managers have used him indicate that he's a good player.
He shouldn't start but he's a very viable option off the bench. A smart and tactically aware player. IMO he should play ahead of Lampard. In fact, Lampard is lucky to even be in the squad. He doesn't offer a lot defensively, his engine has gone, his passing is not brilliant and he hasn't scored many goals this season. He's Chelsea's 4th choice CM behind Matic, Ramires & Luiz. And tbh even Mikel has looked better in recent months.
Nah, Lampard's way past his best but he's a smart passer still and is one of the very few natural goalscorers in the squad. He's a must.