Why Frank Lampard must select a strong lineup for the carabao cup | OneFootball

Icon: The Chelsea Blog

The Chelsea Blog

·21 September 2020

Why Frank Lampard must select a strong lineup for the carabao cup

Article image:Why Frank Lampard must select a strong lineup for the carabao cup

Wednesday evening sees Chelsea face Barnsley in a carabao cup third-round clash at Stamford Bridge. It’s an early opportunity for the Blues to put Sunday’s defeat to Liverpool firmly behind them.

Although team news is yet to be announced, it’s hoped that the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Thiago Silva will be available. Usually, the carabao cup is seen as an opportunity to give youngsters a chance to play. However, having not experienced a regular pre-season, it’s essential Chelsea keep a strong lineup to help the new players and the squad in general to gel.


OneFootball Videos


Chelsea only played one pre-season friendly that was away at Brighton three weeks ago. The international break also interrupted plans. Preparation has been challenging, but other clubs could use the same argument. It will take some time before we see the best from Chelsea. It’s only fair that at least up to a dozen games are played before anybody starts to analyse how Frank Lampard’s men have started the season.

Like last season injuries have been a cause for concern. You have to consider that Chelsea are currently without Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic. New signing Ben Chilwell is also nursing an injury. You can’t gauge how Frank Lampard is doing until he has a fully fit squad available.

Barnsley’s visit gives a great opportunity for the likes of Kai Havertz and Timo Werner to shine. Confidence breeds confidence. Something the former in particular needs right now.

We will find out more during Lampard’s pre-match press conference tomorrow afternoon. Now is the time to back the boss and have faith in his abilities as a coach.

View publisher imprint