Chelsea’s young superstars are the epitome of Frank Lampard

Chelsea’s young stars can be described as a lot of things, but perhaps the biggest compliment is their comparisons to Frank Lampard.

When Roman Abramovich bought Chelsea in 2003, it was the beginning of a new era at Stamford Bridge. There was a change from top to bottom as the squad underwent radical changes in what marked the beginning of the revolution. Big names kept on coming and it was up to the existing players to step up and make the mark. Players like Frank Lampard and John Terry were ready to fight as they became the club’s core alongside new signings like Didier Drogba, Ashley Cole, Petr Cech and many others. Up until their final season, they were invaluable members of the squad.

Chelsea was at a similar stage ahead of the current season as half a dozen signings were made. All of which intended to be in the first XI as regular starters, much like those additions in the beginning. The previous season saw many youngsters from the academy becoming important members of the squad; individuals like Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, Reece James and Fikayo Tomori all had their breakout seasons at Chelsea.

Therefore, when the Blues made the big-money signings, many expected the academy youngsters to be sat on the sidelines a lot more in favor of the imports. However, just like Lampard 16 years ago, the academy graduates upped their game and became leaders. James, Mount and Abraham have not only built on from their impressive first year at Chelsea, but they have also thrived and added new aspects to their games. Many things like a change of tactics and injuries have contributed to their success thus far, as well.

Captain Cesar Azpilicueta was the Blues’ first choice right back before the season. On the odd occasion, he and James were used together, but a change of approach has seen James become the first choice right back. The youngster now seems more assured while defending and has improved massively going forward. He complements Hakim Ziyech well on the right side of Chelsea’s attack.

First at Derby and then at Chelsea, Mount has been one of Lampard’s most trusted players during his young managerial career. The midfielder’s work rate and energy are extremely important in how Lampard wants his side to play. As a result, Mount has consistently gained a place in the line-up as the gaffer still seeks his preferred formation. Since settling into a 4-3-3 formation, Mount’s influence in matches has increased a lot as one of two No. 8s.

The player who was in danger of becoming a peripheral member the most was Abraham, as the arrival of Werner loomed large. Injuries to Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi meant Lampard had to find a replacement on the wings and even though he tried Mount there, it was not as successful as originally intended. Werner’s ability to cut in from the left saw him move out wide and Abraham got the nod as the central forward. Until now, that change has benefited the Blues as they’ve gone 10 unbeaten. Having two true goal scorers who understand one another has helped Chelsea going forward, as well.

As star players like Havertz and Pulisic return from hiatus’, things might change a bit. It will not be a straightforward task for Lampard to choose 11 players from his squad to start consistently, but it is a headache any manager would cherish. Since the matches are coming thick and fast, every member of the squad is needed.

It’s always extra special when the academy graduates can step up when the competition increases, just as their legendary manager did years ago. The young group of academy graduates in Chelsea’s team is beginning to form the next mold of superstars at Stamford Bridge. Luckily for the youngsters, they have a Blues legend from the original revolution in the dugout.