Liverpool 2-2 Chelsea (5-4 on pens): 5 men who were impressive for Frank Lampard 

#1 N’Golo Kante

Even in defeat, Kante was brilliant for Chelsea

Against Manchester United over the weekend, Chelsea were outrun and out-muscled in the second half, as the Red Devils ran riot on the field. One man who was sorely missed on the night was N’Golo Kante, who was recovering from injury and was only brought on for the last 20 minutes of the game.

However, Lampard was quick to reinstate the Frenchman in the starting line up against Liverpool, in a midfield three alongside Kovacic and Jorginho. With Sarri gone, Kante was expected to carry out his usual deeper role in the field. Lampard, though, had other ideas.

The Frenchman was given full freedom on the field and was unshackled from his defensive responsibilities. And the result was simply brilliant. Kante dictated the game in a box-to-box role, ensuring that Liverpool failed to take control of the midfield.

The Frenchman was brilliant on the counter, moving the ball quickly and joining the attack with intent. Without the ball, he was his usual inspired self, pressing the opposition, closing down and breaking Liverpool’s moves. It was his brilliant build-up play that helped Chelsea score the opening goal.

N’golo Kante was Chelsea’s best player by a mile on the night. He is the engine of this Chelsea team and Lampard will be delighted with his performance against Liverpool.