In the midst of uncertainty surrounding Chelsea’s final Premier League match of the campaign, it is easy not to recall Lampard has been coaching the team with one hand tied at his back.
The 2019/20 Premier League season was always going to be a challenging one for Frank Lampard who deserves praise rather than critics.
Chelsea has occupied the top-four since mid-October. Uncertainly, they could drop out on the 38th round if they fail to get the point, they need against the tough Wolverhampton at Stamford Bridge.
The fact the Blues have revolved around the Champions League spot all season has seen a few forget the club was tipped to achieve little in Lampard’s first season in the Chelsea dugout, with the coach has had to deal with a transfer ban and losing Eden Hazard.
Having given you that reminder, it’s impressive how Chelsea has performed under the Englishman’s guidance.
Promoting academy players in the likes of Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount, Fikayo Tomori, and Reece James in place of having the capability to make signings has worked out wonderfully for Lampard.
A slump of form after the turn of the year saw Lampard search for a striker even if it was on a short-term deal. This he hoped would raise the level for the final months of the campaign. But, while the transfer ban had been lifted, the boss did not get his wish.
The signings of Timo Werner from RB Leipzig and Hakim Ziyech from Ajax have given Chelsea fans plenty to look forward. However, their arrival at the club means little for the 2019/20 remaining matches.
Christian Pulisic’s form has softened the blow of losing Hazard as the American has racked 10 goals and 10 assists in all competitions.
Mateo Kovacic and Ross Barkley have also looked sharp and Lampard’s patronage. Likewise, Billy Gilmour’s from the academy has been useful in times of crisis.
In that sense, the 42-year-old coach has navigated through the obstacles in his way. But, with all his professionalism, fans are to determine if the season as a whole has been a failure or a success.
What Lampard says about the season
To the Englishman, work going on behind the scene at the club means that even if Chelsea blows a Champions League spot and lose the FA Cup finals, it will not represent a disaster.
“I don’t feel like it will absolutely depend on what happens. This because I feel like some things are slightly out of control when it comes down to one game”.
“All I have done is work to get us in this position now. Let’s hope we do get the right results. If we do, then I will certainly be very happy because I know I have given everything I can to this job this year”.