Frank Lampard continues to shape his Chelsea side as he approachs the start of the season in only his second season as a manager.
The former Derby boss has looked to tweak the style of play early on since Maurizio Sarri’s departure, focusing on intense pressing from the front.
A promising victory over a Barcelona side in the preliminary stages of working towards match fitness has built confidence for the Blues.
With Mason Mount and now Christian Pulisic adding a freshness to this group despite the transfer ban, the signs are promising early on.
Their next test is against Reading at the Madejski, here’s how you can follow it.
The match is on Sunday 28 July and kicks off at 3pm BST.
The match is available on Chelsea TV, which can be found on channel 419 on Sky.
You can also watch it online with the live stream from Chelsea TV here.
All pre-season games remaining are available at £10.99 for the UK and Ireland, globally though just the Reading friendly is available on Chelsea TV.
The game can be viewed on The 5th Stand app too, making it even easier for fans. Games are available from £1.99, available from four hours before kick-off – therefore 11am BST on Sunday.
Team news
N’Golo Kante has recovered from a knee issue that forced a premature departure from the Asia tour. Though he is training with the group, he may continue to sit out here.
Prediction
Expect Chelsea to be competitive now in terms of fitness, despite Reading likely a week ahead of them due to the earlier start to the Championship.
The added quality and desperation to impress Lampard with places up for grabs, in that opening game against Manchester United, should give them enough to squeeze past the Royals 2-1.
