Chelsea are preparing for the second homecoming of Frank Lampard as the club's head coach. In what will be the club's third different manager for three successive home games, the all-time top scorer for the Blues is back yet again.
He watched on from the stands against Liverpool before being announced as interim boss two days later in a remarkable turnaround. That was the first time he had come back to the stadium where his name is still sung on a weekly basis.
"I'm delighted to be back. It never falls short for me, the honour of being manager, head coach in whatever capacity," he said of walking out at SW6 as manager once more. "I've done it before for a season and a half and pretty much loved every minute of it. I'm happy to be back.
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"I've performed at Stamford Bridge in one way or another for a long time over the years, my overriding feeling is a focus on the job and trying to get wins. I appreciate being back but I'll have my serious face on."
Lampard's task is no easy one. Chelsea are yet to score under his management, a run that stretches back to the 2-2 draw with Everton before the international break four games ago. With Real Madrid on the horizon, the former midfielder will need every bit of confidence and support possible from the home crowd.
Despite growing frustrations towards the players and ownership, Lampard is still an immensely popular figure and will get the reception that someone of his stature deserves. To commemorate his return, Chelsea's Shed End supporters organisation have prepared a special welcome for the 44-year-old.
A banner, which already hangs in the Shed, reading: "In Frank we trust. Then. Now. Forever." will be on display yet again at the stadium.
Having been sacked during the Covid-19-affected 2020/21 season he never truly got the send-off or reception that his work with the young players and squad had earned, leaving a sour taste in the mouth of fans that had some special memories under his watch, specifically in matches away to Tottenham and Arsenal in his first campaign.
Now Lampard is back again and it will be his day at Stamford Bridge but little will mask the disappointment if the team cannot produce a win on the pitch.
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