Lampard a broken record as Batshuayi-led Chelsea edge Hull City

An early goal from Chelsea against Hull City, with Michy Batshuayi scoring the rebound off Mason Mount’s shot just six minutes into the game, could have been the sign of a trouncing to come at KCOM Stadium. That however was far from the case, as the Blues’ tendency to turn on and off during games continued with a 2-1 win in the FA Cup’s fourth round that should not have been as difficult as it was.

Manager Frank Lampard recognised that Hull are not easy opponents to beat at their home turf. Still, he was very frustrated with his team squandering several chances throughout the match, playing as if we were holding a much bigger lead against a side who were not as tricky as the Tigers today.

“It is not easy coming here.

“We had a lot of shots again. It is a frustrating period again for us again. We have to remain very secure if we are going to only score once or twice.”

Lampard may sound like a broken record with regards to missed opportunities and the lack of stability that would allow us to hold thin leads without heart attacks every time we have to defend against set pieces. But for him, it is important to “repeat” the message ad nauseum, as a way to highlight that to our younger players.

“You have to repeat a message, and if we are a bit young they have to get it in quickly. If we allow teams to stay in games then you might stay in games.”

In today’s match, veteran striker Olivier Giroud — who is reportedly close to transferring to Inter Milan — was absent from our squad. According to Frank, he joined fellow centre-forward Tammy Abraham in our injury list with a groin problem. (Ed.note: minor "injuries" and transfer speculation, name a more iconic duo.)

“Giroud had a slight groin injury.”

Speaking of Tammy, the English youngster remains out of contention and without an exact date or timetable to return to the pitch.

“It’s still too early to tell [when Abraham will be back].”

Thankfully we did not feel Tammy’s absence as much as we might have, since Michy did a good enough job filling in. He scored our first goal of the match today, and did all the good things you expect from a player in his position to continue impressing his head coach after putting on some good work during training.

“I am pleased with Michy and for him to score his goal. I want him firing and he has to stay at that level.

“He trains as I want him to train. When you get the opportunities you have to take them. I want him to keep delivering. It is a demanding level.

“He is the recognised striker.”

-Frank Lampard; Source: football.london

In Tammy’s absence, having an in-form Michy would certainly be helpful. Long may it last!