Chelsea’s ideal midfield for the beginning of the Frank Lampard era

RCM (RAM) - Ross Barkley

Southampton FC v Chelsea FC - Premier League

It's a shame Ross Barkley is where he is right now, as injuries and the fading away of his old form at Goodison Park has curtailed the Englishman's career. He did enjoy a fine run in September and October under Sarri last term, displaying the quality he possesses in the advanced areas of the pitch. However, he has lacked consistency.

Under Lampard, he will have the license to play much further up the pitch and more central, unlike last season where he was shifted to the left of the midfield three. Barkley is most lethal when he's plying his trade from attacking midfield - a trump card Lampard could unlock and of course, utilize.

Mason Mount worked with the new Chelsea boss at Derby, but he is not expected to hit the ground running from the outset. It'll be a huge gamble if Lampard hands him starts from the very beginning. Danny Drinkwater and Tiemoue Bakayoko are neat defensively, and both possess their own special skill sets.

But, given their pace, ability to interchange short passes and close-range finishing, would Lampard play either of them on the right side of the midfield trio? Certainly not.