But it is still impossible to predict where we will be in 12 months.
That is the mark of the Abramoivich era. If you don’t want to win the biggest prizes you just have to fail. And for all his respect for his famous former midfielder, Lampard will eventually be judged at the same levels as those who fell before him.
That’s why it’s crucial that he make the most of the six major signings Abramovich put out ahead of his second season as manager. And heading into the turn of the year it remains to be seen if Lampard can put an incredibly talented squad into a team of winners.
The second half of the season is filled with a promise for the Chelsea manager – but December has been a timely reminder of the uncertainty surrounding Stamford Bridge.
The month isn’t even out, but it has confirmed a microcosm of Chelsea under this term.
The prospect was fueled by the 3-1 win over Leeds at the start of the month – coming hot on the heels of a 4-0 win over Sevilla in the Champions League and played out in front fans for the first time since March – there was reason for real credit there was a title challenge on the cards.
But the case back to Everton and Wolves leaves them six points behind leaders and winners Liverpool and outside the top four on Christmas day.
How quickly things can change.
The challenge for Lampard was always to be as quick as he could to design his much-changed side.
It has done a great deal so far, but the fault lines are becoming more visible.
Hakim Ziyech has too much reliance on creativity – so it will be essential for them to keep up with Liverpool.
Christian Pulisic’s ongoing hamstring issues are also a concern as Americans and Moroccans are expected to be on every wing as one to intimidate defenses.
They need someone to finish their good work, and that’s where Timo Werner comes in.
The German started so well, but the goals have dried up and he looks like a short player on confidence.
It didn’t help him that he is moved from wing to wing and he rarely played through the middle as Lampard had to tie his team to handling injuries. Again, that is why the fitness of Ziyech and Pulisic is so important.
As a trio they have the ability to compete against any face in Europe, with Lampard building a full-line forward line in line with Liverpool’s attack on Mo Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino which has been so devastating in the last few years.
If those three got a regular run in the New Year Chelsea could look at real title stuff and even more.
More so if Kai Havertz can recount the form he showed in Germany that made him one of the most popular players in Europe before Chelsea paid £ 71million to take him away from Bayer Leverkusen.
He’s overshadowed that player – and while Lampard has defended his performance strongly so far, he doesn’t do much to confirm that price tag so far.
These are early days and it is far too early to judge Havertz or any of the additions – but after spending more than £ 200million to rebuild his team, Lampard must pay off all signs quickly.
This weekend get a £ 10 free bet with Betfair, when you place a £ 10 bet on Same Game Multi on the Premier League.
Terms: Min £ 10 Multi-game multiplayer game on any EPL game this Friday – Sun. Free bet valid for 72 hours, provided at bet settlement. This does not include a bet. T & Cs apply.