None of the Premier League's "Big Six" has had a season that’s been so hard to assess as Chelsea. Frank Lampard took over in difficult circumstances, with Eden Hazard finally departed to Real Madrid and a transfer ban in place. There were very few expectations and, in that context, to qualify for the Champions League and reach the FA Cup final, all while blooding a number of young players, represents success.
But it’s also true that there has been a widespread sympathy for Lampard from press and fans that was not afforded to Maurizio Sarri, his predecessor.