Lightning struck twice at Stamford Bridge last night as Manchester United left the bridge with a 2 – 0 victory for the second time in the premier league and the third time this season. The other victory came in the Carabao Cup round of 16 with United winning 2 goals to 1. Last night’s result shifts pressure off the shoulder of Solsjkaer to Lampard.
It was obvious that Chelsea lacked a focal point of attack as they had a misfiring Michy Batshuayi leading the line for them due to the absence of Tammy Abraham through injury. The Belgian sticker failed to convert several chances as United began to grow into the match and eventually taking the lead through Anthony Martial shortly before half time.
Manchester United stuck to their game plan despite Chelsea’s pressing. The Blues were creating chances but failed to convert them. The battle in the Midfield was eventually won by the Red Devils as January signing Bruno Fernandes was pulling strings all through. He eventually provided the assist for Harry Maguire’s goal in the 66th minute.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has recorded victories over Jose Mourinho, Frank Lampard and Pep Guardiola. All these victories came when least expected and when his job seemed to be on the line but the United board has stated that the Norwegian’s job is safe, time after time. Ole has two years left on his current contract and would be looking forward to winning trophies and securing Champions League football.
Frank Lampard faces an uphill battle as he needs to solve Chelsea’s issues of not converting chances that they create. Also, they need to improve their home form which has been terrible all season. Top scorer in all competitions, Tammy Abraham has issues with his ankle and missed the match last night, his availability is not certain.
Lampard would be forced to integrate the 33-year-old French World Cup-winning striker, Olivier Giroud into the team as Michy Batshuayi has not been productive. Giroud provides an aerial threat and is great will link-up play. His cameo from the bench last night shows that he is hungry and desperate for some action.
The victory leapfrogged United from 9th place to 7th which helped to close the gap between them and Chelsea to 3 points. The race for Champions League football has heated up due to Manchester City’s ban from the Champions League for 2 years. Arsenal has now come into the picture as they began the chase with a 4 – 0 victory over Newcastle on Sunday.
