Despite a stretch of just one win in their last seven league games, Frank Lampard’s Derby County remain in with a shout for the promotion playoffs in the Championship. Currently sitting eight, two places but just one point below Aston Villa (and with a game-in-hand), they are in the middle of the pack of seven (7!) teams separated by just four points, all vying for the final two playoff spots.
That’s certainly not a terrible place to be for Lampard’s first season in football management. Derby do have nine games left, and they are finally getting Mason Mount back from injury, too, so there’s still a good chance that Frank does something Super with the Rams this season.
Lampard on his loanees: “I know all three have loved their time here. They love living here and they can’t wait to play at the weekend - @MasonMount_10 has been like a caged lion whilst he’s been injured. @FikayoTomori_ has elevated himself to another level.” pic.twitter.com/ArmN9rgor8
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) March 27, 2019
But what about next season? The Chelsea legend has already been made one of the favorites to replace Maurizio Sarri, who hasn’t even been sacked yet.
But Lampard is not giving much thought to that at all, at least none that he would admit to in public.
“I am an easy link. Does it affect me? No. I have a three-year contract here, I am planning pre-season and recruitment for next season. My pure focus is on the club (Derby County).”
-Frank Lampard; source: Derby Telegraph
As Chelsea start running out of games to finish top four, speculation about Sarri’s future at Stamford Bridge will only increase. Should the Blues fail to win the Europa League at the same time, drastic change may be required once more.