UEFA Super Cup 2019: 3 changes Frank Lampard must make to the lineup

#2 Christian Pulisic for Ross Barkley

Reading v Chelsea - Pre-Season Friendly

Another baffling selection from Lampard against United was the inclusion of Ross Barkley on the left-wing. Barkley's natural position was occupied by Mason Mount. Lampard's hesitancy to immediately thrust Christian Pulisic into the limelight was questionable.

The Englishman like the rest of his teammates was decent in possession, but off the ball, his defensive contribution was in question. He was routinely outsmarted by the marauding Aaron Wan-Bissaka and ultimately failed to have any meaningful impact on the match, swiftly being replaced by Pulisic in the second half.

The American appeared vibrant in contrast to his teammate, constantly pressing up and down the field, and even getting into a few tussles with Paul Pogba & co. The defensive capitulation that occurred shortly afterwards affected the young winger as much as it did the rest of the team. He showed great fighting spirit towards the end of the game but his efforts proved futile in the face of disjointed team morale and an organized opponent.

Lampard should play to his team's strengths. Pulisic's adaptability to play on both wings offers dynamism to the Blues. His defensive work would also offer cover for Emerson to make more forward runs. Lampard might have been pragmatic in trying to delay the introduction of such a young player to the labours of the Premier League, but for a one time cup final, he might want to go all in.