Lampard needs to give opportunities to Chelsea’s talented young players, such as Loftus-Cheek and Abraham, but will hope for patience from the owner Abramovich, right

Six years ago, looking ahead to what would be his final season as a Chelsea player, Frank Lampard suggested that it was time for the club to think long-term and strive for stability. It has still not happened. Another three managers have come and gone and, barring a dramatic late twist, it will be his turn next, looking to succeed where others have failed — while desperate not to fail where others have succeeded.

Having been granted permission by Derby County to discuss the Chelsea vacancy, Lampard will spell out the need for a different approach. It could be boiled down to a three-word pitch: culture, environment, youth.

What sounds like a run-through of government departments will actually be a simple message: that the culture