Merson urges Chelsea boss Lampard to bench summer signing

Joe Williams
Paul Merson Arsenal Man Utd

Paul Merson thinks Frank Lampard should leave Kai Havertz on the bench when Chelsea play Tottenham this weekend.

Havertz signed for the Blues in a big summer move from Bayer Leverkusen and so far managed four goals and two assists in all competitions.

The 21-year-old has missed their last two Premier League matches against Sheffield United and Newcastle United, with Lampard’s side winning on both occasions.


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And with Havertz out of the team, due to a positive coronavirus test, Merson thinks Lampard has “found the right blend”.

Merson told the Daily Star: “Chelsea have found the right blend up front without Kai Havertz in the team and he might find himself on the fringes now.

“It’s so competitive there now that if you find yourself out of the team it could be hard to get back in.

“Havertz has missed a few games because he tested positive for coronavirus, and Chelsea have won them all. They’ve had Tammy Abraham up front and Timo Werner playing wider, and it has suited them. It looks like their best system.

“Havertz wasn’t pulling up any trees before he missed those games. He’s a young lad who needs time to settle.

“I wouldn’t throw him back in against Tottenham because they look better without him right now. Spurs did exactly what I thought against Manchester City and proved they are going to be contenders.

“But I actually think Chelsea will test them more. City were trying to score the perfect goal. Chelsea will be more direct and have more pace. I don’t think Spurs can have 35 per cent possession against them and win.”