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The Ben Jacobs Chelsea column
Frank Lampard’s first game back at Stamford Bridge ended in a very disappointing 2-1 loss to Brighton. The score could have been far worse. Brighton had 26 shots at goal and were deserving winners. And it was clear at full-time some fans voiced their discontent directly to Todd Boehly. The owners then made their way into the dressing room.
This was a potential risk of hiring Frank Lampard. Bringing him in was a popular decision amongst many fans and had he beaten Real or won his Premier League games to date his appointment might have been seen as a masterstroke. But by losing three games in nine days, it’s no surprise discontent was directed at the owners.
There was such a ‘Potter Out’ sentiment that Graham Potter perhaps took the brunt of criticism shielding the owners to an extent (although granted not with every fan). But when a club legend, who is brand new, is in charge if it doesn’t work out perhaps a larger proportion of supporters start to attack the owners directly. I am not saying Lampard is immune from criticism, but I don't think he'll be as widely 'vilified' as Potter.
Chelsea have had four different managers this season (if we count Bruno Saltor) and what Lampard’s first three games show is there is just no quick football fix. The players are lacking confidence and identity and goals are still a massive struggle. The squad is too big and only a shock win against Real Madrid (and by at least two goals) is going to salvage this season.
The owners went in to the dressing room after Brighton to emphasise Real is an ‘all or nothing’ game. This has been apparent for some time, but it’s clear Chelsea will be well beaten if they don’t instantly and dramatically improve. This was reiterated to the squad.
Frank Lampard is in a tricky position in many ways even if it’s a role he relishes. He may himself be lacking a bit of confidence, too. After all, he’s won just one of his last 17 games as manager, losing 14 and conceding 33 times.
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