[ad_1]
Frank Lampard has supported Timo Werner to regain his composure in front of goal and make a positive impact when Chelsea host Manchester City on Sunday. Although Werner had a reputation for being one of the best forwards in Europe when he joined Chelsea last summer, he has struggled recently and has gone 12 games without a goal for the club and the country.
The former RB Leipzig striker has been drained of confidence and, after being substituted at halftime during last Saturday’s loss to Arsenal, was eliminated for a draw with Aston Villa two days later. Although Werner’s form has been a concern for Chelsea, who have won one of their last five games, Lampard believes the 24-year-old’s hard work on his completion in training will pay off.
“Every player has a difficult time in front of goal,” said the Chelsea manager. “The beauty is that he has had opportunities because that is definitely positive. I found that working in boot camp was the only way to change that; simple work and repeat finishing, which Timo is doing.
“When you work like this, it’s a matter of time because his natural attributes will put him in front of goal and away from defenders. If your confidence is due to losing a partner, it is natural. My job is to help you with your confidence. I feel that the goals will come ”.
One of the criticisms of Werner, who has eight goals this season, is that he is fighting deep defenses. The German could have more space at halftime against City, although Lampard believes the forward’s threat is far from one-dimensional.
“I think Timo’s attributes can be very powerful on the counter, but there are many things we need in the game against City, on and off the ball,” he said. “It’s always a huge weapon at that and I think it will become a huge weapon against the lower blocks. Sometimes the onus is on us to get the ball in the right areas. “
The Fiver – Sign up and receive our daily soccer email.
Lampard added that Chelsea could look to cut their squad this month. Atlético de Madrid are interested in Marcos Alonso, who is in disgrace as a left-back, but may only be able to repay one loan.
Chelsea will also look to get rid of one of its five centers. Fikayo Tomori could go on loan, with Newcastle among several interested clubs, unless a buyer is found for Antonio Rüdiger.
