Frank Lampard has transformed the atmosphere around the Chelsea squad and brought newfound optimism to the Stamford Bridge terraces.
The story up to now
Chelsea are safely placed in the top four after a start to the campaign which has exceeded all expectations given Frank Lampard’s managerial inexperience, Eden Hazard’s departure and a FIFA transfer ban. Their hopes of Champions League qualification hang in the balance, but two highlights of the season came against Ajax, winning 1-0 in Amsterdam, before coming from 4-1 down to draw 4-4 in the return.
The season so far in one word
Reinvigorating.
How the manager is doing
Remarkably well. Lampard’s status as a club legend galvanised a fanbase divided and dispirited during Maurizio Sarri’s tenure. The transfer ban forced his hand to some extent, but Lampard did not have to entrust Fikayo Tomori, Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham with the level of responsibility he has and those decisions have reaped dividends. Perhaps as impressively, the more senior players marginalised as a result have remained focused and engaged.
Best player
Tammy Abraham. There’s plenty of competition, particularly the rejuvenated Jorginho — but Abraham’s 10 goals in 12 League appearances is a staggering return. The Blues have been looking for a top-class No9 for years.
Biggest let-down
N’Golo Kante’s injuries. Some blame Sarri for Kante’s problems this term after pushing him into the Europa League Final despite fitness concerns. Whatever the truth, Kante has been blighted by groin, knee, ankle and hamstring problems, prompting Lampard to give him an extended break last month
All they want in time for Christmas is...
A successful appeal over their transfer ban. The Court of Arbitration for Sport are due to hear Chelsea’s case tomorrow with the club hoping to achieve a reduction in their current two-window punishment. That would mean they could sign players in January — and Lampard has suggested the club would welcome this.
| Fan happiness | 9/10 |
| Overall achievement grade | A- |
A fan’s view (David Clayton)
There were times last season when I didn’t enjoy going to Stamford Bridge. Sarri’s football was so turgid and his stubbornness put many of us off. Frank has changed everything. I feel like I’ve got my club back and although you don’t know how far it’ll take us, throwing in the kids has been long overdue. What’s been most pleasing is how dangerous we look in every game, but the defending could improve.
