Ziyech and Werner are future for Lampard

AMONG the covered seats and concealed faces, a lonely pair of eyes soaking up their new home. As Chelsea took a giant leap towards the Champions League, Hakim Ziyech took his first steps around Stamford Bridge. This was his first chance to watch his new team-mates at home since November, when the winger’s starring role in a 4-4 draw with Ajax helped persuade Chelsea he was worth £38million.

Last night, jewellery glinted from around Ziyech’s neck and the hope for Frank Lampard is that the Moroccan international will soon sparkle in blue, too.

On the manager’s 50th game in charge, it was a timely reminder of exciting days ahead. From next season, Ziyech and £53m forward Timo Werner will add guile and goal threat to this developing side. And yet, last night was also further evidence of how much work still remains. For Lampard, there are arguably more questions than answers. Is Kepa Arrizabalaga a viable long-term No 1? What is his best backline? Norwich provided little insight there but uncertainty reigns up top, too. Who features in their best midfield? Who will play alongside Werner and Ziyech? There was a time when Norwich’s Todd Cantwell looked certain to be among potential targets, but he has no goal in 14 league appearances and is not guaranteed a starting berth. The eye-catching hair has grown but Cantwell looks a costume of the brash talent of life before lockdown. Last night, his most telling contribution was allowing Christian Pulisic a yard to set up Olivier Giroud’s goal. Time is running out if he wants to join Ziyech and earn a move to pastures new.