The form of big-money summer signings Timo Werner and Kai Havertz has been a major factor in the Blues’ recent downturn in form, though Lampard must take some of the blame having struggled to find a formation that will get the best out of both of his Germany internationals, as well as the other high-profile members of his squad.
Despite the recent good form of Olivier Giroud, Tammy Abraham and Callum Hudson-Odoi, Lampard is keen to build his team around Werner and Havertz, and as such figuring out a system to suit them remains his main priority.
He will have to do so quickly, with a run of just one win in six games having seen the Stamford Bridge outfit slide down the table.
Chelsea now sit ninth in the Premier League, 10 points behind leaders Manchester United, and having spent in excess of £220 million ($250m) during the summer transfer window, a title challenge is expected out of the Blues this term.
While there are other issues for Lampard to deal with – namely discontent behind-the-scenes, which Goal understands is currently limited to fringe players – getting results on the pitch while his expensive new arrivals lead the way will ultimately be what saves him from the sack.
So what are Lampard’s options, and which should he opt for against Fulham on Saturday if he does indeed opt to play both Werner and Havertz from the start?
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