A year ago
FRANK LAMPARD is being considered for a return to Stamford Bridge.
The former Chelsea hero was one of the club's greatest players but was sacked as manager in January 2021.
Frank Lampard was at Stamford Bridge last night
Frank Lampard was at Stamford Bridge last night
However, after Graham Potter was sacked, Lampard could return to his former club as caretaker manager until the end of the season.
The 44-year-old, who was eliminated by Everton earlier this season, was in the stands last night as Chelsea drew 0-0 with Liverpool.
If he gets a temporary contract, Lamps could make far-reaching changes to the way the Blues play. Current goalkeeper Bruno Saltor remains with the trio at the back in the squad favored by predecessors Potter and Thomas Tuchel.
But Lampard would probably be in favor of a return to four.
During his first stint, the former midfielder deployed a wide 4-3-3 formation, although he also tried a 4-2-3-1 formation.
His first change will certainly be to bring Edouard Mendy back to No. 1.
Kepa Arrizabalaga was a disaster in Lampard's first season, mistake after mistake between goal. FREE BET AND REGISTRATION OFFER - BEST OFFER FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
Lampard would certainly love the chance to reunite with N'Golo Kante
Lampard would certainly love the chance to reunite with N'Golo Kante
Although not making as many fouls as before, Kepa will almost certainly be eliminated to make way for Mendy, who was recruited by Lampard nearly three years ago.
Another Lampard acquisition, Ben Chilwell, is likely to be selected ahead of Marc Cucurella at left-back, while Reece James has been picked up by the Englishman for the first team at Stamford Bridge.
Lampard will likely prioritize the youth and mobility of Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile in central defence, over Kalidou Koulibaly, while Thiago Silva is injured.
N'Golo Kante's return to the starting XI for the first time since 14 August is welcome for Chelsea fans, and the Frenchman will be the key figure responsible.
In Lampard's 4-3-3 attack, he can count on the former Leicester star's strength behind Mason Mount and Enzo Fernandez. Kepa Arrizabalaga has fallen dramatically under Lampard
Kepa Arrizabalaga has fallen dramatically under Lampard
Lampard had a big influence on Mason Mount's breakthrough
Bringing Mount back into the starting XI will be paramount, with the midfielder having worn the Chelsea armband in Lampard's final game last time out.
While Havertz, now largely considered a failed striker, was also tested in midfield during his first months at the club.
In matches that need a little more steel, Mateo Kovacic can come in.
Lampard could use former England team-mate Raheem Sterling on the left wing, although he would also like to consider Mykhailo Mudryk.
While Noni Madeeke is the kind of young talent he could favor on the right flank. Joao Felix could start the team as a central striker, although Lampard could switch to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
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He may be attracted to the likes of Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka.
But his return will probably be bad news for Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria and captain Cesar Azpilicueta.
Noni Madeeke is an exciting young talent to unlock for Chelsea
Noni Madeeke is an exciting young talent to unlock for Chelsea
The Blues have yet to see the best of Mykhailo Mudryk.
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