As Chelsea approach their 33rd Premier League game of the season against title-contending Arsenal, there's a sense the Blues have entered footballing purgatory. No success can be derived from the season and the club's future is not obvious.
Frank Lampard is in a caretaker role; no head coach has been appointed for next term and with a bloated squad, a number of players will not expect to be at Stamford Bridge next term. Perhaps few want to be there at the moment with the club sitting in 12th position, and 36 points behind the Gunners.
Lampard has presided over five defeats following his return and Chelsea managed just one goal in January, a heavily deflected strike from Conor Gallagher. With all of the top four still to play, things won't get any easier. Some may be worried about their reputation, but that is not a concern of the 44-year-old manager at the moment.
