Gullit Cautions Lampard Against Chelsea

By Max Wise

Former Chelsea manager Ruud Gullit has warned Frank Lampard to be wary of who he brings on board as part of his backroom staff if he is appointed as manager of the Europa League winners.

Chelsea are on the market for yet another manager after Maurizio Sarri’s departure for Juventus was confirmed by the club on Sunday.

Whoever takes charge at Chelsea will be the 10th full-time manager of the Blues ever since Roman Abramovich bought the club in 2003.

Lampard, who is Chelsea’s all-time top scorer with 211 goals, is currently in charge of Championship side Derby County but he has been tipped to replace Sarri after the Italian’s departure was confirmed after just a season in London.

Already a number of Lampard’s former Chelsea teammates, including Didier Drogba, are being linked with a return to Stamford Bridge as part of a new coaching set-up while Petr Cech will likely take on a sporting director role at the club.

But Gullit, who won the FA Cup as Chelsea manager in 1997, has warned Lampard not to surround himself with ‘friends’ if he wants to be successful as Blues boss.

“He must not make the mistake to get friends there,” Gullit told Sky Sports.

“He has to make sure he gets some people there who have experience in managing and coaching teams.

“(Lampard) has done nothing yet as a coach.

“Chelsea gave me this opportunity as well and we won a lot, so that (inexperience) has nothing to do with it.

“I think it's important for Chelsea that they have someone in charge they can relate to. I hope also they can get the right people around him who can help him.

“That will be the best thing for him."