Chelsea’s decision to offer Frank Lampard the interim manager role might have been sparked by the players’ reported reaction to Bruno Saltor’s leadership.
Reports suggest that Lampard is now close to returning to Chelsea as a caretaker on a short-term basis as the club continue to search for a permanent option.
Why did they need another interim manager in the first place after appointing Saltor to this role following Graham Potter’s sacking on Sunday?
First of all, it would give co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, who are reportedly leading the search for a new manager, more time to consider their options.
Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique are said to be the two leading candidates, but Chelsea reportedly plan to interview a few others, too, which makes a lot of sense.
However, while Chelsea the hunt for a manager continues, which may last weeks or months, they will have to rely on relatively-inexperienced Saltor to lead the team.
This is far from ideal, especially after Saltor admitted that he did not really enjoy being in charge of the team when they faced Liverpool on Tuesday.
“It is truly difficult to enjoy,” the Spaniard admitted in his post-match press conference.
“It’s been really difficult, sad and disappointing, but I’ve been trying to focus on being the best professional.”
The players might have seen it, too.
According to The Telegraph, there is a feeling among the players that Saltor would have rather left the club alongside Potter rather than stay in his absence.
This is where Lampard could come in. He is already familiar with some of the players and as a club legend, it is much easier for him to command respect from them.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
