Coventry City failure ‘will end Lampard’s career’
Frank Lampard’s managerial career now faces a pivotal moment at Coventry where failure could make it the last club he ever takes charge of.
The Chelsea legend will be aiming for redemption and a chance to rebuild his managerial reputation as he returns to the demanding environment of the Championship, following over a year out of work since leaving Stamford Bridge for the second time.
The 46-year-old’s managerial career, once promising, has been defined by inconsistency and defensive frailty. At Derby County, he led the team to the 2019 Championship play-off final, falling short despite a talented squad including Mason Mount and Harry Wilson. Lampard’s possession-based, high-pressing tactics showcased attacking intent but highlighted defensive vulnerabilities.
His first Chelsea stint in 2019/20 saw positives despite a transfer ban and the loss of Eden Hazard. Guiding the Blues to a fourth-place Premier League finish, Lampard’s team registered the second-most shots (625), fourth-most crosses (862), and averaged a league-high 2.84 crosses per 90 minutes, scoring 69 goals (third-highest).
However, defensive issues persisted, he lost an FA Cup final to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, and after a £200m squad overhaul, he was sacked in January 2021 with the London club languishing in ninth. Successor Thomas Tuchel then came in and led the same group of players to Champions League glory.
Brought in at Everton to replace the deeply-unpopular Rafa Benitez, the former England international initially avoided relegation after his January 2022 appointment, with a memorable 3-2 comeback win against Crystal Palace, but struggled to sustain progress.
