Credit: Imago

Wayne Veysey

Thu 9 April 2026 7:00, UK

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Coventry City are making contingency plans in the event that Frank Lampard is lured back to Chelsea this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Sky Blues have targeted John Eustace as a top contender to lead the club into the Premier League as they draw up a shortlist of replacements for their high-flying manager.

The Derby County boss is believed to be ready to jump at the chance to take over at Coventry, who increasingly fear the prospect of an approach for Lampard from Chelsea, where he retains legendary status.

Liam Rosenior is increasingly likely to be sacked by Chelsea this summer despite only being appointed as a replacement for Enzo Maresca in January.

Lampard’s potential departure to Chelsea would be seen as a huge blow for Coventry, who can seal promotion to the Premier League if results go their way this week.

Chelsea to survey manager market

Former Manchester United scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider this week that Chelsea players are growing frustrated with Rosenior.

The Englishman has seen his team knocked out of the Champions League in embarrassing fashion by PSG over the last month, in addition to defeats to Everton and Newcastle United.

The Blues could still win the FA Cup this season, with a semi-final against Leeds United set for later this month, but there is a feeling that Rosenior’s fate is already sealed.

Chelsea are thought to already be putting the feelers out on potential replacements, with Lampard expected to be among those approached.

The 47-year-old has already taken charge at Stamford Bridge twice in recent years, initially on a permanent basis between 2019 and 2021, before he saw them through to the end of the 2022-23 season as an interim manager.

The former midfielder looks to have grown as a manager during his time at Coventry, providing a transformational impact that decision-makers at Chelsea will like the look of.

It is unclear whether Lampard would be willing to leave his project with the Sky Blues, however.

John Eustace ready for first Premier League role

Eustace, a midfielder, came through the academy at Coventry, making 97 appearances between 1998 and 2003.

He has never managed in the Premier League, but has led an impressive season at Derby as they have gone from 19th last season to eighth in the Championship.

The Rams will hope to keep hold of their manager, but they will be aware that several clubs are tracking his progress.

Eustace would jump at the chance to manage in the Premier League, with his connection to Coventry making for a fairy tale story.