Surprising news today has linked Chelsea legend Frank Lampard with a sensational return to the manager position at Stamford Bridge.
While it is only currently reported to be on a temporary basis, it appears that he is being considered to attempt to bring the feel-good factor back to Stamford Bridge just in time for the Champions League quarter-final.
Lampard of course has already enjoyed a spell as the manager in West London, succeeding originally whilst tasked with managing under a transfer embargo.
While things didn’t work out eventually, there is no doubt a few players who would benefit from his return.
Mason Mount
The obvious one. The prodigal son. After having his services at Derby County, Frank Lampard entrusted to bring Mason Mount straight into the Chelsea side when he took over, where he stayed for pretty much his entire tenure.
It can be argued that the England international played his best football under his first Blues boss, scoring arguably the most important goal during his reign against Wolves on the final day of the season.
Currently, he has dropped out of the first team as a result of his injuries and uncertain contract situation. If anyone can get him back on the right path, it’s Lampard.
Edouard Mendy
This season has been a real let down for Mendy. Less than a year after being named the UEFA goalkeeper of the year, he was out of the side completely in favour of Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Graham Potter only ever used the Senegal international when the Spaniard was injured, completely different to the previous situation he had encountered.
Kepa completely fell out of favour under Lampard, with him even deciding to use Willy Caballero in crucial games instead. Mendy would undoubtedly benefit from Lampard returning.
Carney Chukwuemeka
A bit of a left field shout. Carney Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea with a lot of fanfare, however has hardly been given a kick under either manager.
Something Lampard can certainly be proud of from his time at the club is his ability to manifest youth players to become genuine options to start games.
This is surely what Chukwuemeka is looking for, as he certainly didn’t make the move to sit on the bench.