Chelsea Lost The Game Before It Even Started — Thomas Frank

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Brentford manager Thomas Frank has suggested that Chelsea manager Frank Lampard lost the game before it even kicked off, following his surprise at the starting line-up that showed “so much respect” for the Bees.

The Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge saw Brentford secure a relatively straightforward 2-0 win, thanks to goals from Cesar Azpilicueta [OG] and Bryan Mbuemo.

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This defeat marks the first time since 1993 that Chelsea have lost five consecutive games across all competitions.

After the final whistle, Frank made a telling statement regarding the lack of goal threat in Chelsea’s starting XI, saying:

“Of course you’re pleased they showed us so much respect, but I was surprised.” Lampard made a total of three changes to the side that was beaten by Real Madrid, with only Raheem Sterling named as a naturally attacking player. The likes of Christian Pulisic, Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk, Hakim Ziyech, Noni Madueke and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were all named on the subs bench.

Social media reactions to Lampard’s line-up were largely negative, with fans criticizing the “dreadful” and “unforgivable” tactics. Some fans even called for Lampard to be replaced by former Tottenham manager, Mauricio Pochettino, before the end of the season.

Reflecting on the defeat, Lampard stated that with a 4-3-3 formation, Chelsea looked more dynamic and posed more of a threat in the first 15-20 minutes of the second half. However, he also acknowledged the feeling around the team that the goal might not come, and that opponents might score instead. He added that the team would have to fight for the moment and work to avoid being relegated.

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With only five games remaining, Chelsea currently sits just 10 points ahead of the Premier League relegation zone, raising concerns for fans and prompting further scrutiny of Lampard’s tactics and decision-making.