Chelsea’s ideal forward line for the beginning of the Frank Lampard era

ST - Olivier Giroud

Chelsea v Southampton - The Emirates FA Cup Semi-Final

There are Tammy Abraham and Michy Batshuayi at Lampard’s disposal, but the link-up play of Olivier Giroud along with his sharpshooting, heading accuracy and passing inside the 18-yard box makes it hard for us to look beyond, as far as Chelsea’s spearhead is concerned.

The former Arsenal man works his socks off, offers variety in attack and most importantly, plays to his strengths. He doesn’t overrun with the ball, or fancy a strike from 35 yards out.

Abraham is an interesting choice after his heroics in the Championship last season, but the youngster needs time and improvement in the physical aspect of his game. More so, his torrid time at Swansea City means the management must wait and gradually draft the youngster into the playing XI, without infusing extra pressure.

Batshuayi’s credentials are noteworthy as well, but Giroud is a safer passer of the ball; someone who can wreak havoc and unsettle the opposition defense with his hold-up play.

Most significantly, with the wingers of the side being starlets, it’s quintessential to allow a senior man to lead the line.