Today’s opponent Brendan Rodgers has warned Chelsea boss Frank Lampard that success as a player doesn’t necessarily guarantee the replication of it as a manager, report The Sun.
Rodgers has returned to Stamford Bridge on multiple occasions since departing the club, but today he arrives knowing he will be facing up against a player who he shared the Cobham training ground with.
The Northern Irishman spent four years working at Chelsea as head youth coach and later reserve team manager. He will have crossed paths with Lamps at Cobham on a frequent basis.
Two men that were previously friendly will not be out to do each other any favours today. Three points are on the line in SW6, and both managers will be desperate to get them on the board.
After Wednesday’s excellent performance, we’re confident that Lampard can guide us to them today, but Rodgers has issued a warning for him while speaking to the press ahead of the game.
Rodgers is quoted by The Sun saying:
“No matter what background you come from, you have to have that respect and improve players. I admire the guys who want to come out of that arena as a player. It’s totally different when you’re a player. You’re really focused on yourself — your diet, nutrition, you are self-employed. To go into management, you’ve got to look after everyone. There are examples of players who do make it — others that don’t quite make it.”
He’s not wrong, but Lampard is a different breed to many footballers who have taken the plunge into management. He will not fail at Chelsea, he will not allow himself to.
