Premier League giants Chelsea were undoubtedly one of the biggest surprise packages of the season, as they entered the campaign looking like an average team. Before the start of the season, most Chelsea fans would’ve probably agreed that even a Europa League place for next season would’ve been an acceptable outcome. Instead, they’ve taken everyone by surprise and held onto fourth place without too many signs of a slipping up.
How Did The Blues’ League Season Progress?
When Frank Lampard took over at the helm at Stamford Bridge, the 19/20 league season was immediately branded as a ‘free hit’ by Chelsea fans, in that irrespective of what the outcome was, it would be a year of development. Although that looked like being the case on opening day, when Manchester United dismantled the Blues at Old Trafford, things soon took a turn for the better at the West London club.
Lampard’s tactics began to shine through, and the Blues took a clear advantage over the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal. There were impressive league wins against Everton and Arsenal along the way, as the Pensioners even secured their progress into the knockout stages of the Champions League. They were in fourth place when the league season was brought to a halt. Considering the remainder of their fixture list, Lampard should’ve been confident about holding onto the valuable Champions League spot as well.
Here are three aspects that Lampard must ensure if the season resumes:
Make Sure Tammy Abraham Is Fully Match-Fit
The mid-season injury picked up by English strike prodigy Tammy Abraham came as a gutting blow to the Blues. Until the manager opted to bring Giroud into the side much later in the season, goals were an area of concern for Lampard’s men. With Abraham in the team though, this Chelsea attack is a whole different animal, and keeping him fit and energetic through this challenging period must be one of their priorities.
Decide On A Starting Midfield Duo/Trio
The long-term injury to N’Golo Kante made Lampard’s midfield selection woes a lot easier this campaign. Still, if the season resumes with the Frenchman fully fit, then the gaffer would probably have to make a couple of important decisions. The introduction of young Billy Gilmour to the mix certainly won’t make things any easier, considering that the names that are currently in the hat include Ross Barkley, Mason Mount, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Jorginho, and Mateo Kovacic.
Keep Kepa As The First-Choice Goalkeeper
Frank Lampard dropped the Spaniard at one point in the campaign. Despite various signs of fragility from Willy Caballero, he seemed adamant on not allowing Kepa back into the side. The Spaniard worked his way back into the team in decent fashion a couple of weeks before the season got suspended, and Lampard will do well to ensure that the former Athletic Club man is between the sticks if the league campaign were to resume.
