Chelsea are currently on tour for pre-season as they prepare for the 2019/20 Premier League campaign.
After losing Maurizio Sarri and Eden Hazard this summer, along with being hit with a transfer ban, no one knows what to expect from Chelsea this year.
The club have appointed Frank Lampard to replace Sarri, despite only leading Derby County to 6th in the Championship last season – having been heavily backed by the club in the transfer market.
Lampard now has to get Chelsea in the best shape to compete in the Premier League next season, without being able to dip into the transfer market to bolster his team this summer.
This means that he will have to utilise his entire squad and look to the academy for fresh talent to inject some life into Stamford Bridge in the coming months.
Here are five players who could surprise you at Chelsea next season…
Reece James
Although James is currently out with an injury, he could play a key role for Lampard upon his return. The right-back was sensational for Wigan in the Championship last season and could be ready to compete for a place in Chelsea’s squad.
Mason Mount
Despite Chelsea’s wealth of options in midfield, Mount’s creativity on the ball could help him stand out. He also worked with Lampard at Derby last season, which could give him an edge over others in the squad.
Michy Batshauyi
With Chelsea unable to sign a new striker, Batshuayi could finally be given his chance to impress at Stamford Bridge. The Belgian striker is a natural goalscorer and could hit the goal trail in the Premier League next season.
Kurt Zouma
Zouma enjoyed an excellent season on loan to Everton in the Premier League and Chelsea should look to keep him at the club. If they do, he could surprise people with his commanding performances at the back.
Emerson
Emerson was given a few chances to impress at left-back in the Premier League last season, but was often behind Marcos Alonso in the pecking order. Under Lampard, the Brazilian could step up and become a regular for the former England international.