Frank Lampard is indisputably a talisman of the club and a legend but Frank Lampard’s best position has not been the one he is being selected in or fans like to see him play. Many feel he is simply not suited to a defensive minded role.
Both at Chelsea and in football in general. But you don’t need me to tell you that. Lampard, unfortunately, is nearing the twilight of his career. He has achieved so much during his time in a Blue shirt, and there is so much for him still yet to give, but where is he really best suited?
Frank Lampard’s Best Position
Frank Lampard’s best position has not always matched where managers have played him.
The most recent positional change into the “pivot” partnership in a 4-2-3-1 formation seems ill-suited to some of his abilities and strengths but with his declining pace, it may have seemed the best place to put him.
Before Roberto DiMatteo introduced the 4-2-3-1 when he took over for AVB, Lampard (when AVB let him play) usually found himself just behind the attacking players, ready to pick out a pass to feed Drogba or put another player in a prime spot to give the assist. He also could find himself in just the right area within the 18-yard box (or outside it) to pick up a deflection or loose ball and score with an easy tap-in or a spectacular shot from 20 yards out.
In his more recent positioning, his role has been more defensive. Concentrating on distribution and finding space in the attacking third for Chelsea players to run through with the ball.
He still occasionally finds himself lurking in the 18-yard box, while opposition defenders are often concentrating on speedy players like Hazard and has scored goals from there; adding to his record tally each time.
Lampard’s Best Role
I am open to opinions and discussion. So, what is Lampard’s best role?
He does well enough in the pivot, though there are occasions where his pace fails him and breaking up play as well as passing effectively elude him. But there are other times, and it mostly depends on the opposition and how well his team mates are supporting him in the midfield, where he has the freedom to get further forward and be the dangerous poacher and sometimes creative player we know he can be.
We know he’s still got the technique, though recently the crossbar has been his biggest nemesis, as well as valuable experience to bring to bear.
I go back to my original question though.
What is Frank Lampard’s best position currently? Is there a way for Mourinho to shape the team where Lampard can get free more often to be the attacking threat we know him to be?
I think with the flexibility in the formations that has been our calling card of late can allow this, but does it come at the expense of dominating the midfield, or having to continually play on the counter attack? Or is it time to phase him gradually out of the team due to his age? Time will tell, but I want to see him play and excel as much as possible before then.
Source: Famous CFC
