Chelsea Rumors: Lampard Sees Big Things With Ziyech Blending In Well With Blues

Chelsea FC boss Frank Lampard took in players this summer whom he felt would make a difference at Stamford Bridge. But with most of the attention centered on Timo Werner and Kai Havertz, there was an overlooked player in the person of Hakim Ziyech.

Ziyech was among the fresh new faces who joined Chelsea in February. However, he encountered a slight setback in showing his full potential when he suffered an injury in a pre-season game against Brighton. He is now fully recovered, and the 27-year-old has shown why he is a perfect fit for the Blues.

Ziyech made his first start for Chelsea Wednesday, playing in the club's 4-0 win over Krasnodar in the Champions League, Goal reported. He was responsible for one of those goals, and Lampard is impressed with what the Moroccan footballer brings to the club.

Lampard had already indicated what to expect from Ziyech, whom they acquired via a £37 million ($48 million) deal with Ajax, Sky Sports reported. The Blues manager said he loves his personality and lauded his inner confidence, which he believes the team needs.

"We need players with confidence and personality who believe they should be here and want to offer something. He has been an absolute dream to work with," Lampard said of Ziyech. "We saw a bit of his quality and personality against Krasnodar. The idea of receiving the ball and turning, facing forward and finding that pass before teams are set, that is what I’m excited about to see from Hakim."

With Ziyech, Lampard got a player who brings flexibility to the squad. The Chelsea boss said it was hard to find someone who could succeed Pedro, Willian and Eden Hazard. These were players who held prominent roles during their time with the Blues and left some big shoes to fill.

Lampard does have options in his squad, and most will be trying to earn their slot in the first team. Antonio Rudiger is back in the fold, giving Thiago Silva and Kurt Zouma some friendly competition to see who deserves a starting spot.

Looking ahead, the return of Ziyech should provide a big boost for the Blues moving forward. Chelsea faces Burnley next and Lampard will have most players on deck. Only Kepa Arrizabalaga and Billy Gilmour are on the injured list.