A compact defensive system that utilised every player’s assets, and personnel changes that served to improve the team’s performance rather than make an example of certain characters in the squad.
Chelsea’s preparations for Frank Lampard’s first Champions League knockout game in the dugout couldn’t have gone much better. Bayern Munich however are well accustomed to turning teams over on their travels to the capital, just ask Tottenham.
Injuries are still a pressing issue for Lampard, and options in some areas appear to be limited. There is the potential for Willian, one of the few players well versed in how to handle the mental and physical rigour of Champions League knockout games, to return to the fold as the Blues look to take a commanding lead with them to the Allianz Arena in just under a month’s time.
Olivier Giroud meanwhile looks set to retain his place in the side having managed as many shots on target against Tottenham, than Michy Batshuayi has in 15 Premier League appearances this season.
Tuesday night promises to be one of the seminal moments of Lampard’s season of transition at the helm of the club with whom he famously thwarted tomorrow’s opponents in 2012 as a player.
Here’s how we think Lampard will line his side up…
