How Lampard’s hard-hitting half-time message during Leicester clash motivated the team

Frank Lampard lambasts players for first-half showing against Leicester City

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard is a winner. The Blues legend is one of the best players to don the jersey and has given it his all for the team on the pitch.

It is understandable that he would not accept anything but the best from the players. If there was any doubt among them, it would have been dispelled following the half-time team talk against Leicester City.

“There were a few words at half‑time.”

According to the Guardian, Lampard made it clear that the performance was the worst he has seen in any half all season. He demanded immediate response and ended up substituting three of his players.

Frank Lampard was not happy with Chelsea's first half display agbainst Leicester City
Frank Lampard expects more from his players

“We lacked urgency and intensity. I made three subs but it could have been more and different subs.”

Rather than let his emotion cloud his judgment, the Blues boss made use of the new substitution rules to good effect. With five substitutions permitted, Lampard was still left with two more in case things turned awry.

“Five subs came in handy because I could use three at half-time and still have two left.”

His decision to bring on Ross Barkley proved inspired as the Englishman scored the winner on the night. This takes Lampard a step closer to what could be a career-defining first trophy as a manager.

Ross Barkley was the hero on the night
Ross Barkley was the hero on the night

The three players pulled were Reece James, Mason Mount and Billy Gilmour. The trio is amongst our best young stars and this will serve as a rough but necessary lesson.

Lampard is not ignorant of the effect it can have and has spoken to them at both half-time and full-time. The fact that he expects them to move could hint at his faith in them and that they will have learned from it.

With Manchester United waiting in the semi-finals, the Blues will be keen to avoid a fourth loss to the Red Devils this season.

Frank Lampard ready to clearout deadwood from squad
Frank Lampard (Getty Images)

More Chelsea News

Chelsea are now just two games away from winning English football’s most prestigious knockout competition. Who knows, maybe one of the youngsters could even make the difference against Manchester United.