Brentford boss Frank surprised by Lampard’s team selection

Thomas Frank admitted he was surprised Frank Lampard showed his side so much respect with his team selection after Brentford’s 2-0 victory at Chelsea.

An own goal from Cesar Azpilicueta and Bryan Mbeumo’s second-half strike inflicted a fifth straight defeat in all competitions for Lampard since he was installed as Blues boss on an interim basis.

Lampard started the game without a natural striker in the team.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was named on the bench, with Kai Havertz sidelined through injury and Raheem Sterling playing as a lone centre-forward.

The hosts created little in the first-half and Aubamayang squandered presentable opportunities in the second period following his introduction at half-time.

“I am pleased they showed us so much respect but yes, I was surprised,” Bees boss Frank said.

“It is no secret Chelsea are not in a good place, but it is still Stamford Bridge and they still have some unbelievable players and for us to win here two years in a row is remarkable. I think in many ways we were in control of the game.

“I respect every team. We don’t fear any team but we spoke among us when we saw the line-up and it is still top players who can have one moment.

“When you look at the bench they have Aubameyang, Mudryk and Joao Felix – top European players, but we trusted ourselves to get something here.

“The last six games we have played quite well and not won any of them and at least two or three were better performances than tonight.”

Meanwhile, Lampard defended Chelsea’s players after they were booed off following another dismal display.