When Frank Lampard was spotted at Stamford Bridge, watching Chelsea take on Manchester City, many wondered about the reason behind the visit. Was he just there to watch two of his former sides play? Could he be a potential managerial target for BlueCo with Liam Rosenior looking out of his depth? Or was it something else?
It is no secret that Lampard retains ties with Chelsea. He is arguably the greatest player in the history of the club. He also had two stints managing the Blues, once as interim boss during the BlueCo era.
The Englishman might be looking to put those links to good use in the summer. It looks like one of Chelsea’s most highly-rated youngsters is on Lampard’s radar.
Coventry City look set to be promoted to the Premier League. Lampard has done a phenomenal job as their manager. But he will know the importance of improving his squad if he wants to remain in the top flight. Could a Chelsea winger help him achieve that? And more importantly, are the Blues open to the idea?
Frank Lampard eyeing move for Chelsea winger as Coventry City head for Premier League
According to TEAMtalk, Lampard has already outlined plans to secure a move for Jesse Derry. He wants him on a season-long loan. But Chelsea view him as a player who could soon push for a more prominent role in the next year. So, a final decision has not yet been made on whether he will be allowed to leave the club, even on a temporary basis.
Derry arrived from Crystal Palace last summer. And he has already been making an impression at the youth level. The youngster has also been successful in breaking into the first-team picture.
That being said, Chelsea’s recent record with Cobham graduates is not particularly impressive. Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento have established themselves as Premier League stars after leaving. On the other hand, Josh Acheampong continues to be overlooked despite the defence underperforming all season.
Sending Derry on loan to Coventry might not be a bad idea
Lampard has faced a lot of criticism as a manager over the course of his career. But one thing he has always been known to do is develop youngsters and give them a chance.
Just look at his managerial stint at Chelsea. Facing a transfer ban, Lampard was able to secure Champions League qualification with Cobham graduates like Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori playing first-team roles.
That goes to show his capability of getting the best out of youngsters. So, Derry spending a season on loan working with Lampard might not be a bad idea. He would also get to know what it takes to succeed at Chelsea from a player who scored 211 goals from midfield for the club.
If Chelsea do decide to let Derry leave on loan, Coventry might not be the only club trying to sign him though. So, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the talented youngster.
