Chelsea: Four lessons learned about Christensen, Barkley and Hudson-Odoi

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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 11: Frank Lampard, Manager of Chelsea embraces Ross Barkley of Chelsea after their sides victory in the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Burnley FC at Stamford Bridge on January 11, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /

2. Ross Barkley could still have a future at Chelsea

Barkley had a promising preseason but he failed to maintain that performance once the season started. Fans who were expecting to finally see his qualities at Chelsea were fairly disappointed.

Soon injuries happened, and he was out of the squad. Despite scoring a goal, Barkley did not have a great game against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup. Against Burnlewy he showed everyone the qualities he has.

One of the things that affected Chelsea against teams that sit deep to defend was the lack of urgency in their movements. By the time they get the ball towards the opposition penalty box, all the space would be closed.

Against Burnley, Barkley particularly made sure the ball was moved quickly. It was a throwback to his Everton days when he was their best player.

If Barkley can maintain that attitude, he will be a valuable member of the team. Unlike some other players, such as Michy Batshuayi who is given chance after chance to impress, Barkley has that quality. Lampard’s faith was rewarded against Burnley.

Related Story. Chelsea: Four ways Frank Lampard left his mark on win over Burnley. light

3. Change of fortune for Hudson-Odoi

Callum Hudson-Odoi’s form since returning from injury has not been great. Of course, he started well with three assists from the first three games. But since then he faded out and was short of confidence. There was a lack of step overs or running with the ball causing trouble.

It was clear it was only a matter of time. Fans and Lampard were waiting for him to get back to his rhythm. The match against Nottingham Forest looked like the one he needed. He was a different player against Forest and he capped it off by scoring the first goal of the decade at Stamford Bridge.

Things were not different against Burnley. The fans were treated to the same Hudson-Odoi they saw last season. He looked more confident and exciting. The cherry on the cake was his first Premier League goal.

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