FOOTBALL
EPL: Frank Lampard is a plan horribly gone wrong
When Frank Lampard was re-appointed by Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali to replace the sacked Graham Potter until the end of the season, the expectations were low.
The hope was that Lampard’s return would bring positive energy to dispel the gloom around Stamford Bridge and push Chelsea past Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Even if they didn’t progress, Lampard’s institutional knowledge would provide stability while the club searched for a new permanent head coach.
Unfortunately, Lampard’s re-hiring has failed on every front.
Chelsea has lost all five matches, scored only one goal, and the season has flatlined.
The Champions League is gone, morale at the training complex is low, and only Lampard’s legendary status has insulated him from the anger directed at his predecessor.
Mauricio Pochettino’s leverage in talks to succeed Potter is being bolstered every time Chelsea takes to the pitch.
The clamour from some supporters for the new boss to come in before the end of the season is not realistic.
Enthusiasm for being parachuted into Cobham days before a Champions League quarter-final with holders Real Madrid was always limited among Chelsea’s list of candidates.
As the scale of the damage becomes clearer with every subsequent loss, why would anyone else choose to be tainted by association with this season?
Lampard did accept the potential boost to his reputation of reviving Chelsea’s flagging campaign and the professional risk of failing to do so.
But the five defeats have worn on his demeanour, and his game plan against Brentford did not scream belief.
Despite this, Lampard is defiant.
“I’m very proud to manage here and I’ve been in similar situations,” Lampard said.
“I came here in a difficult moment before and we had big success in my first year. I went to Everton, I had a challenge to stay in the league, I stayed in the league.”
He persisted with his formation that made Madrid uncomfortable for a while in the second leg but failed to account for the fact that Brentford does not play like the reigning champions.
Lampard’s introductions of Mykhailo Mudryk and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the interval at least enabled Chelsea to look like a purposeful attacking team with the ball, but it was too little too late.
Chelsea’s remaining six fixtures are tough, with matches against all of the current top four and two sides fighting relegation.
It’s hard to see where the points will come from when even goals appear beyond this team.
Pochettino is the most proven candidate left on Chelsea’s shortlist and clearly the preferred choice.
Boehly and Eghbali would be wise to rubber-stamp that agreement sooner rather than later.
In his post-match media duties, Lampard said he was not worried about the short term, but he wanted to win games.
He understood the problems as to why they were not winning games, and he knew that belief took time and work. But the problem was that his game plan did not exactly scream belief either.
The season has been excruciating for Chelsea, with hits to their credibility, and Boehly and Eghbali cannot afford for the most proven candidate to walk away.
There is confidence on all sides that Pochettino will be Potter’s permanent successor, but Chelsea’s priority now is to end the season on a high note, regroup, and come back stronger next season.
FC Goa
Shane Watson Joins FC Goa Players for Exciting Instagram Live Session
Fans will witness an exciting Instagram Live featuring Shane Watson and FC Goa players Sandesh, Jay, and Aakash.
📅 Date: 12th January 2025
⏰ Time: 5 PM onwards
Shane Watson will share his incredible cricket journey during this engaging session with football stars from FC Goa. Transitioning seamlessly, the players will discuss their football experiences and personal journeys with fans worldwide.
Sandesh, Jay, and Aakash will represent FC Goa and talk about their passion for football and inspiring moments. Furthermore, Shane Watson will highlight the parallels between cricket and football, showcasing their similarities in teamwork and dedication.
This Instagram Live will also allow fans to interact with these iconic players by asking questions and sharing comments. Moreover, the live session will explore insights into how sports unite people globally through shared enthusiasm.
Fans can look forward to fun moments, as Watson and the Gaurs discuss the mental and physical aspects of sports. Transitioning naturally, they will reveal how professional athletes stay focused and overcome challenges in high-pressure situations.
FC Goa’s official Instagram handle will host this event, ensuring fans have direct access to this thrilling interaction. Notably, this collaboration emphasizes the growing synergy between cricket and football, celebrating India’s passion for both sports.
Mark your calendars for 12th January 2025 and join this unique event showcasing sportsmanship, unity, and shared passion. Don’t miss the chance to connect with your favorite players and gain exclusive insights from legends of sports.
BIG NEWS
Reporter Denies Alleged Affair with Lionel Messi
A reporter recently addressed rumors of an alleged affair with football icon Lionel Messi, firmly denying the claims. She stated that the speculation was baseless and that she had been unfairly dragged into the controversy. The incident has sparked widespread discussions, with fans debating the impact of such rumors on public figures.
The reporter clarified her stance during an interview, stating she was “caught in the middle of something untrue.” The allegations originated from unverified sources, causing unnecessary distress to both parties involved. Lionel Messi, who maintains a clean public image, has not commented on the matter, allowing the focus to remain on his professional achievements.
This controversy highlights the challenges faced by public figures and media professionals in dealing with intrusive rumors. Such situations can often tarnish reputations, even when no evidence supports the claims. The reporter emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and urged people to verify facts before spreading allegations.
Lionel Messi, celebrated worldwide for his footballing excellence, has always maintained a private personal life. Despite this, rumors occasionally surface, drawing unnecessary attention. Fans and supporters have largely dismissed the allegations, expressing their unwavering support for Messi and his family.
The incident underscores the need for privacy and respect for individuals in the public eye. The reporter’s statement aimed to bring clarity to the situation and move past the baseless accusations. This serves as a reminder of the impact false narratives can have on people’s lives.
With the reporter’s denial, the focus can now shift back to Lionel Messi’s ongoing contributions to football. Fans and media alike hope for a resolution and a move away from unnecessary controversies.
FC Goa
Hyderabad FC Salvages Late Draw Against FC Goa in ISL
Hyderabad FC clinched a dramatic late equalizer against FC Goa in an intense 1-1 draw during the Indian Super League 2024-25. The thrilling encounter unfolded at the GMC Athletic Stadium, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
The first half witnessed both teams showcasing aggressive strategies, with FC Goa dominating possession early on. Their efforts bore fruit in the 23rd minute when Iker Guarrotxena scored a brilliant goal, giving FC Goa a crucial lead. Hyderabad FC’s defense struggled to contain Goa’s relentless attacks but prevented further damage before halftime.
The second half saw Hyderabad FC adopting a more aggressive approach, creating multiple equalization opportunities. However, FC Goa’s defense, led by Anwar Ali, displayed resilience, thwarting Hyderabad’s attempts. Despite the pressure, Hyderabad’s persistence paid off in the 88th minute when Halicharan Narzary capitalized on a defensive lapse to score a stunning equalizer.
Both teams fought fiercely in the final moments, but the match concluded in a 1-1 stalemate. FC Goa’s coach, Manolo Márquez, expressed disappointment over losing two points despite a strong performance. Hyderabad’s coach, Thangboi Singto, praised his team’s determination to secure a crucial point.
The draw affects the standings for both teams, as they aim to strengthen their positions in the league. FC Goa will look to bounce back with a victory in their next game, while Hyderabad FC gains momentum from their spirited comeback.
The match highlighted the competitive nature of the ISL, with both teams showcasing their potential. Fans celebrated the intensity and excitement, reaffirming their passion for the league.
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