Frank
Lampard has told his Chelsea players they have set the standard for the rest
of the season after their stunning 1-0 win at Ajax.
Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount, Fikayo Tomori and Callum Hudson-Odoi all started
in the imposing Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.
They stood up to everything last season's semi-finalists could throw at
them, before substitute Michy Batshuayi scored four minutes from time to
earn Chelsea a sixth consecutive win.
"That's the blueprint. There are no excuses for us now. That's the standard
and we can't drop it," said Lampard.
"The most pleasing thing is the desire to improve and follow a game plan,
and we are moving in the right direction. The signs are good at the moment."
Batshuayi had missed a sitter from six yards out before he converted a cross
from fellow substitute Christian Pulisic to move Chelsea level on points
with their hosts at the top of Group H.
"I'm delighted with every element of the performance, the work ethic from
everyone and the subs was second to none," added Lampard.
"That's what you want from the subs - sometimes the hardest part is leaving
someone out. It's great for the spirit of the squad when subs come on and
make an impact like that.
"Michy's training and positivity is exactly what you want. I know he missed
one chance but his hold-up play was excellent and he got his goal.
"Whatever happened after that miss I would have been proud, but I know Michy
can finish. Christian's assist is as important as the finish, and the fact
the sub scored makes me so happy."
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