Chelsea hero Gus Poyet has urged Frank Lampard to adopt a more pragmatic approach in games in order to challenge for titles next season.
Sheffield United handed Chelsea a 3-0 defeat and a blow to Lampard’s men in their pursuit of Champions League spots on Saturday.
As often seen this season, Chelsea struggled on both sides of the pitch despite dominating the possession of the ball (76%).
Former Chelsea midfielder Poyet believes Lampard should put more emphasis on defensive shape, even if it means grinding results.
The Uruguayan told Stadium Astro: “Sometimes we try to split, he’s an offensive manager, he’s a defensive manager, and there’s nothing in between, but there is. The best teams in the world defend very well and attack very well.
“It’s having the right balance, and that’s what I want to see from Chelsea next year – a better balance in their play. More practical sometimes, win 1-0, why not?
“The best teams in the world win leagues winning 1-0 when they are not having a good day.
“Today was a day for Chelsea to say, ‘we’re not having a good day, let’s make sure we’re solid, we’ve got enough players to score a goal and we win 1-0.’
“I would start with that, to have a better organisation in terms of defending.”
Poyet made a good point about a more pragmatic mentality.
Chelsea have had some 2-1 or 3-2 wins this season, but just one 1-0 win (against Newcastle United back in October).
It suggests a “if you score two, we score three” approach to win, rather than a more conservative “scoring one and keeping a clean-sheet” approach.
Sometimes prioritising defence could be the best approach; as shown in their 2-1 win against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
