Chelsea new manager Frank Lampard has had a difficult start to his career at Stamford Bridge, as he is building a squad that is in transition, while also dealing with a transfer ban.
Lampard seems to want to build a team that consists of young players that could maybe challenge for the Premier League title in the next two or three years, giving an opportunity to youngsters like Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham.
The Chelsea legend has had a few key players missing through injury at the start of the season, but once they return, he could have an exciting squad that could do well in the years to come.
Let’s take a look at the strongest Chelsea lineup when all players are fit:
Strongest Chelsea Lineup
Goalkeeper
Kepa, the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, will be Chelsea’s No. 1 ‘keeper for the season.
Defence
Chelsea’s most experienced central defender, Antonio Rüdiger, has missed the start of the season due to injury, but will return to the heart of the defence when he is fit again. Kurt Zouma, despite his errors, could start alongside Rüdiger in defence.
Chelsea captain César Azpilicueta will start at right-back, but could face competition once 19-year-old right-back Reece James returns from injury. On the other side, Emerson will most likely retain his place at left-back, after replacing Marcos Alonso in the team.
Midfield
Lampard will play three central midfielders in his team, with N’Golo Kante and Jorginho playing in the centre of the park.
Mateo Kovacic will be the third central midfielder in the Chelsea team, while Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are the other options at the heart of the midfield.
Attack
Tammy Abraham seems to be the first-choice striker for Lampard in his team, ahead of experienced strikers, Michy Batshuayi and Olivier Giroud.
New signing Christian Pulisic will start on the Chelsea right, while Pedro is another option for Lampard. Mason Mount could start on the left and drift into central areas.
Mount could also play as a No. 10 if Lampard opts for a two-man midfield. The Chelsea youngster could face competition on the left side of attack once Callum Hudson-Odoi returns from injury.