When Frank Lampard returns to Stamford Bridge as Derby manager next week, he will dream of the day he takes his place in the home rather than visiting technical area.

There was a time such career progression was inevitable, the legendary ex-player ushered into a coaching role. Such appointments were not just romantic. They were sensible and successful, players who understood their club and loved by supporters making a seamless transition from the pitch to dug-out. Those days are gone.

Steven Gerrard faces the same challenge as Lampard as he starts his senior coaching career in Scotland with Rangers. His eventual ambition is to manage Liverpool, but he has much to achieve before he will be considered a realistic successor when Jurgen Klopp steps down.

The golden generation of English players has been handed a tough legacy by the most recent group of top UK coaches at our elite clubs. They are going to have to transform perceptions.

If any vacancy became available at any of the ‘big six’, which British manager would be shortlisted? Realistically? None.