KEY POINTS

  • Antonio Rudiger and Ruben Loftus-Cheek were left out of the lineup in Chelsea’s recent win
  • Chelsea defeated Barnsley 6-0 in their Carabao Cup matchup
  • Kai Havertz delivered a hat trick in Chelsea’s win

Rotation changes were apparent in Chelsea’s recent win over Barnsley as Antonio Rudiger and Ruben Loftus-Cheek were excluded from the lineup. Manager Frank Lampard shared that it was merely adjustments for the team in their Carabao Cup stint.

There have been rumors that Rudiger is linked to a possible loan deal to Barcelona, Roma and AC Milan. In their 6-0 win, Lampard pointed out that their absence was just a matter of making room for the recent game.

“The situation with both is that they weren’t in the squad," Lampard said, as reported by Goal. "I had a similar answer from the other day; they just weren’t in the squad. That is just a choice at the moment.".

In Chelsea’s latest match against Liverpool, Rudiger was also not part of the lineup. According to Lampard, they had five center-halves and he couldn’t pick a squad that has three of these defenders on the bench.

“Again with the center-halves I can’t have them all in the squad. I keep getting asked about the size of the squad. There might be movement, we know that, but nothing is concrete so don’t read too much into those selections at the minute,” the Chelsea coach emphasized.

There were other players given the opportunity to step on the pitch to give them additional experience as professionals. This includes Tammy Abraham who scored the opening goal of the matchup.

"It will have to be things which are right for the club and individuals and me and in terms of what happens in the next couple of weeks,” Lampard shared.

Among those who stepped up in Chelsea’s victory over the Tykes was Kai Havertz who tallied a hat trick. The 21-year-old’s speed and athleticism were in full display as he was able to get through Barnsley’s defense with ease.

"I thought it was a great combination with Tammy and I was pleased with the way he grew into the game in terms of confidence. It was a great night for Kai, and the first of many for him," Lampard added, as reported by BBC.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard must deliver a title challenge
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard must deliver a title challenge POOL / Andy Rain