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    Inside Frank Lampard’s superstitious routine as new Coventry boss’ success could depend on Chelsea legend’s DOG

    FRANK LAMPARD will probably split his time between London and digs in Coventry as the Championship club’s new manager.For most people, this is a minor issue, but for superstitious Lampard, it could have quite some bearing upon him in his new role.Frank Lampard has landed the manager role at Coventry CityCredit: PAHe has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Championship sideCredit: PAHe helped lay the foundations at Chelsea ahead of their Champions League conquest in 2021Credit: PAHe saved Everton from relegation in his last jobCredit: ReutersAs Chelsea boss way back in 2019, the club’s all-time greatest goalscorer and hugely decorated midfielder revealed just a few of the extraordinary habits he believes are vital to keep the positive results flowing.One of those is taking the exact same route while walking his dog around the same park.He explained that he would visit the same coffee shop first thing, then wait patiently for his beloved pooch to do her ‘business’.Then it would have to be following in his well-trodden footsteps for the same distance. In his mind it is pivotal to his team’s fortunes.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThere is also the precise 50 minutes on an exercise bike – no more and no less – that forms part of his routine to protect a winning run.His great mate, co-coach and confident Jody Morris later Tweeted that these were just two minor examples of his friend’s OCD.Lampard is 46 and about to join his fourth different club as a manager.From cutting his teeth at Championship Derby, he seemed destined to manage his beloved Chelsea, although the experience turned sour quickly, as it tends to do at Stamford Bridge.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSLosing a play-off final, saving Everton from relegation, laying the groundwork for Chelsea’s second Champions League triumph in 2021 form part of his CV.There’s a great coach inside Lampard waiting to get out.Frank Lampard confirmed as Coventry manager as Chelsea legend returns to management after 18 months unemployed He almost led Derby County back to the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty – ContributorHis success at Coventry could depend on his pupCredit: GettyHe is often seen walking his dog with wife Christine BleakleyCredit: GettyHe has a superstitious theory about walking his dogCredit: https://www.instagram.com/franklampard/Frank Lampard’s managerial recordHere’s a look at Lampard’s record as a manager…Derby County May 2018 – July 2019P57 W24 D17 L16 Win percentage 42.1%Chelsea July 2019 – January 2021P84 W44 D17 L23 Win percentage 52.4%Everton January 2022 – January 2023P44 W12 D17 L24 Win percentage 27.3%Chelsea (caretaker) April 2023 – May 2023P11 W1 D2 L8 Win percentage 9.1%Overall: P288 W132 D72 L16 Win Percentage 45.83%All of his three previous clubs had their respective issues that went beyond the dugout.Whether it was Derby’s cash crisis, Everton’s ownership nightmare and Chelsea’s ruthless demand for glory that pushed sentiment to one side, some things are out of a manager’s control.The fear is that it might be the same for him at City. The brutal sacking of legendary boss Mark Robins gives Lampard big shoes to fill.On a bigger scale, Unai Emery and David Moyes found that out to their cost at Arsenal and Manchester United.Last season, Coventry were denied an FA Cup final by the cruelty of VAR and a ruthless offside decision.The comedown from that and the failure to reach the Championship Play-Offs has clearly played a part in Robins’ departure.Lampard was a Chelsea legend when he was given the manager’s job too soon in his career.Even then he admitted his popularity with the fans would last ‘two minutes’ if he didn’t deliver from the dugout.He finished fourth in the Premier League and took them to an FA Cup final against Arsenal in his first season.He was adored by the fans for promoting the academy players he had watched develop while studying for his coaching badges at his old club.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen Chelsea were in crisis the season before last, he answered a call and went back as interim boss for 11 games – walking away lamenting the malaise that had set in in the dressing room.Coventry City is a big club in the doldrums. Lampard’s reputation as a player and his impressive worth ethic could quickly get them firing again but in reality it all depends on his dog.Lampard’s appointment is a kick in the teeth to Coventry faithful – fan’s viewBy Alex JohnsonIt was always going to be tough to fill the boots of a club legend like Mark Robins, a manager who provided many Sky Blues’ with their best-ever memories supporting the club, but the arrival of Frank Lampard has gone down like a lead balloon among the Cov faithful.In his Q&A appearance with fans after firing Robins, owner Doug King emphasised his intention to bring in a tactically minded head coach to get the best out of what is the most expensively assembled squad in Coventry City history.To end up with Lampard, whose former assistant Jody Morris received a lot of the credit for his success at Derby County, feels like a kick in the teeth. This isn’t someone who has won league titles or been praised for his brilliant style of football in the slightest.Coventry fans will get behind Lampard and give him a chance. But to suggest he is an upgrade on Mark Robins after one playoff finish and a 9.1% win percentage in his last job is laughable More

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    Chelsea wonderkid locked in contract stand-off spotted in first-team training ahead of Heidenheim clash

    CHELSEA wonderkid Josh Acheampong has returned to training with the Blues ahead of their Conference League clash with Heidenheim.Acheampong had previously been frozen out of training amid an intense contract stand-off.Josh Acheampong is locked in contract talks with ChelseaCredit: GettyThe defender (second from left) has returned to training after being frozen out amid the negotiationsThe 18-year-old right-back is highly rated in SW6 but has made just two substitute appearances for the first team so far, with only one of them coming under Enzo Maresca.His current deal expires in 2026 and reports have suggested that Chelsea have opened talks over an extension to secure his long-term future.Acheampong is understood to be the third choice right-back at Chelsea, behind Reece James and Malo Gusto.But fans of his were left frustrated when he wasn’t even included in the matchday squad for games against Bournemouth and West Ham when neither James or Gusto were available earlier in the season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHowever, it looks as though the teenager could be part of the squad again soon after he was spotted in training ahead of the Blues’ European tie against Heidenheim.Reece James remains injured for Chelsea meaning there is a spot that Acheampong could fill for Maresca’s side.Acheampong is listed in Chelsea’s B-list for the Conference League, meaning he is eligible to play in the competition despite not being named in the A-list squad.However, he wasn’t included in the travelling squad posted on Chelsea’s social media accounts yesterday.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans were buoyed by Acheampong’s return to training, feeling it could be a sign he has renewed his terms with the club.But Maresca was quick to throw water on the rumours by explaining in his post-match press conference that wasn’t the case.Chelsea legend John Terry reveals moment that ‘broke me’ three days after Champions League final penalty slip vs Man UtdHe said: “There is not any update in terms of contract or these kind of things. “He had a session with us in the last two days with some of the young players. He is not in the squad for tomorrow and we have four or five from the second team with us.”Acheampong hasn’t played for the U21s since September and has been short on game time since talks over a new deal stalled.The England U20 international is rumoured to be locked in talks over an extension with Chelsea said to have made tentative progress in the negotiations.Acheampong is considered as a top talent and has been linked with a move away to the likes of Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich.Chelsea are understood to be keen not to sell their rising star with clubs circling ahead of the January transfer window.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe versatile defender could follow in the footsteps of other highly-rated full-backs that have left Stamford Bridge in pursuit of regular minutes.Both Tariq Lamptey and Tino Livramento took the leap to leave Chelsea and kickstart their careers elsewhere. More

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    Chelsea poised to sign teenage son of Premier League cult hero who played for bitter rivals

    CHELSEA are reportedly set to sign the son of a Premier League cult hero.The Blues have made an effort to sign the best and youngest talent from around the world since the takeover by Clearlake.Chelsea are in talks to sign the son of Emmanuel EboueCredit: Action Images – ReutersChelsea will have to pay compensation for Mathis EboueCredit: Watford FCHe has featured for the England Under-16sCredit: Watford FCThe club are now in talks to sign Mathis Eboue from the Watford academy.The 15-year-old is, of course, the son of Arsenal cult hero Emmanuel Eboue.The Daily Mail have claimed that Chelsea are discussing a compensation package with the Premier League.This is because the move is subject to the Prem’s five-step process that applies to transfers which need compensation.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt is used to stop clubs from breaching Youth Development Rules.An independent third party is used to conduct interviews with all involved including the clubs and player’s parents or guardians.Eboue is already establishing himself as one of the most promising players in his age group.The attacker has played for the Hornets’ up to the Under-21s and scored for the side.Most read in FootballHe has also represented the England Under-16s side in the 1-0 win over France to snatch the U16 Challenge Trophy title.Emmanuel Eboue established himself as a fan favourite at the Blues’ London rivals Arsenal during his playing days.The defender starred for the Gunners between 2004 and 2011.Gianfranco Zola reveals Cole Palmer pledge as Chelsea icons meet for first time after EA FC comment Fans fell in love with the Ivory Coast international for his brilliant sense of humour on and off the pitch.Eboue once revealed how he told Queen Elizabeth II that he would quit football to look after her corgis.He made 219 appearances for the North London side and scored nine goals but never won any silverware.He came close in 2006 but Arsenal were beaten in the Champions League final by Barcelona.He was also a part of the squads which lost in the 2007 and 2011 League Cup finals.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Chelsea looking to re-sign star they sold for just £18million but face transfer battle with Newcastle

    CHELSEA are considering a summer swoop to re-sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, according to reports.Guehi came through the youth ranks at Chelsea before moving to South East London for £18m during the 2021 summer window. Marc Guehi has now attracted interest from his former club ChelseaBut Chelsea could find themselves in a battle with Newcastle, who also want to land their former star next summer.He agreed to leave Stamford Bridge three years ago after finding his first-team opportunities limited.However, Guehi, who joined Chelsea at the age of six, has since established himself as one of the Prem’s best centre-backs.He has come on leaps and bounds since arriving at Selhurst Park, with the defender breaking into Gareth Southgate’s England side last season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSGuehi started five of the six games during the Three Lions’ Euros campaign, including the final 2-1 defeat to Spain.But the Palace star only missed the Switzerland game through suspension after picking up two yellow cards.The 24-year-old’s Palace contract expires at the end of next season.This has alerted the Enzo Maresca’s side to the fact he could be available for a cut-price fee next summer, according to talkSPORT.Most read in FootballGuehi is now a staple in England’s defenceFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe centre-back was wanted by Newcastle this summer, but Palace refused to lower their £70m price tag.Guehi, capped 22 times by England, was recently praised by interim Three Lions boss Lee Carsley for being “fast and aggressive”.’Referees don’t understand football!’ Ex-Prem ref slams PGMOL for serious Chelsea & Liverpool errorsHe only played two first-team games for Chelsea and was loaned out to Swansea City, before leaving to join Palace, who were then managed by Patrick Vieira.But transfer journalist Graeme Bailey has tipped Guehi for a possible return to the Blues. He said: “Guehi is someone who they like, he’s high up on the list. Palace have got issues, a January deal is not something Guehi is pushing for.“He’ll have a year left on his deal next summer, and will be a very attractive proposition for one of the top six. “He’s one to keep an eye on for sure, we know Chelsea like him, and Chelsea do want to upgrade the options behind Fofana and Colwill.”Chelsea player ratings vs LeicesterBy Graham HillCHELSEA survived a late Leicester fightback to win 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.SunSport’s Graham Hill rated each of the players in action.Robert Sanchez – 6He had a few shaky moments playing out from the back, which gave Leicester hope of getting back into the game before the break, but he will not be happy to have missed out on a clean sheet in stoppage time.Wesley Fofana – 7Booed on his second return to Leicester – but he refused to let it unsettle him, the fans could not put him off producing an assured display in the Chelsea defence.Benoit Badiashile – 7Controlled display at the back, he showed some superb vision at times but, apart from a spell in the first half, he was rarely troubled.Levi Colwill – 7Cool, calm and collected in defence – even when Leicester threatened to get back on level terms. A controlled second half display helped keep the Foxes at bay.Marc Cucurella – 7Looked a threat out left going forward and created some of Chelsea’s best opportunities of the game – including their second goal and he knew how to frustrate Leicester when he needed to.Moises Caicedo – 8Booked for dissent at a time when Leicester almost came back into it, but kept his head to make sure Chelsea stayed firmly in command of the game.Enzo Fernandez – 8Set up Jackson’s goal and is making a habit of providing key assists – this was fifth in his last three games.Headed number two from close range for good measure.Noni Madueke – 7Brought an excellent first half save from Mads Hermansen – who then stopped him scoring Chelsea’s second before the break.Blocked a certain Palmer goal though.Cole Palmer – 8Got some unwanted attention midway through the first half after a terrible challenge from Wilfred Ndidi – hit Maduke when he should have scored, otherwise he was excellent.Joao Felix – 6Peppered some shots in early on and proved a thorn in Leicester’s side, but drifted in and out of the game despite being part of a dominant Chelsea display.Nicolas Jackson – 7The opening goal – his seventh of the season – rounded off a powerful run and clinical finish after some help from Fernandez in the build-up. Also had a hand in Chelsea’s second.SubsChris Nkunku: for Joao Felix 81mins – 6Romeo Lavia: for Caicedo 81 mins – 5Jadon Sancho: for Maduke 84mins – 6Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: for Jackson 90 + 1mins – 5 More

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    ‘I’ll never forget that image’ – Theo Walcott reveals how bizarre Arsene Wenger moment convinced him to join Arsenal

    THEO WALCOTT has revealed how Arsene Wenger convinced him to join Arsenal.Walcott joined the Gunners from Southampton in 2006, before making his debut for them as a 17-year-old.Theo Walcott has revealed how Arsene Wenger convinced him to join ArsenalCredit: PA:Press AssociationWalcott revealed one ‘unusual’ thing he will never forget about Arsene WengerCredit: AFPThe 35-year-old lifted the lid on the deal that took him to North London amid interest from Liverpool, Chelsea and a late offer from Manchester United.Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, he said: “There was [options for me]. Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd came in with a very late bid which I wasn’t aware of at the time.”[But] To be honest my mind was already made up as soon as Arsene Wenger got involved. “I remember going back to his place with David Dein.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”His sofa was a little bit lower than this and his legs were higher than his actual face itself being how tall he was.”(Laughing) I’ll never forget that image it was very unusual.”And Thierry Henry of course was a player that I was really inspired to learn from.”As soon as I had Arsenal involved I just want to go there and play with him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”It was my dream to play with someone like ‘that’ and if you ask any kid if they want the opportunity to play with their star they’re going to do it.”And it was an easy option.” Fans can’t believe Theo Walcott’s ‘shocking’ blind ranking of top 10 Champions League stars and ask ‘is this a prank?’Walcott had the chance to play with Henry for one season before he departed for Barcelona.However, having become one of the main figures at the Emirates, Walcott was still at the club when Henry made his return in 2012.He was substituted off the field moments before Henry’s famous late winner against Sunderland.Walcott scored 108 goals in 397 games for the Gunners overall.He eventually left the club in 2018 to join Everton.After 85 appearances with the Toffees Walcott returned to Southampton, initially on loan in 2020.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe switch was made permanent the following summer, with Walcott starring for the Saints for another two seasons before announcing his retirement.He also earned 47 caps for the England national team, scoring eight goals.Walcott said playing with idol Thierry Henry was a major factor in his decision to join ArsenalCredit: EPATheo Walcott career statsArsenal (2006-2018): 397 appearances, 108 goals, 73 assistsHonours: FA Cup x3, Community Shield x2Southampton (2005-2006 + 2020-21 on loan + 2021-2023): 82 appearances, 10 goals, five assistsEverton (2018-2021): 85 appearances, 11 goals, nine assists More

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    Forgotten former Chelsea star reveals Mauricio Pochettino tried to sign him before awkward ‘who’s that’ comment

    FORMER Chelsea defender Malang Sarr has criticised Mauricio Pochettino for “forgetting” his name while he was at the club.The 25-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge in 2020 but made just eight Premier League appearances in four years.Malang Sarr has hit back at Mauricio Pochettino, claiming the manager DID know who he was at ChelseaCredit: GettyPochettino claimed he did not know who Sarr was last summerCredit: GettyHis last outing for the Blues came on the final day of the 2021-22 season – when Thomas Tuchel was still in charge.Sarr did not even train with the first team when Pochettino was at the helm.As a result, the manager claimed he did not know who the defender was last summer.Asked in a press conference about the Sarr’s future, Poch replied: “Who?”Read More in FootballBut the Frenchman hit back in a recent interview, claiming Pochettino did know who he was.He even claimed the manager tried to sign him for Tottenham during his time at White Hart Lane.Sarr told L’Equipe: “I took it badly. It shouldn’t have happened. He knew me.”He even tried to sign me at Tottenham. I didn’t ask for an explanation.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSarr now plays for RC LensCredit: RexThe centre-back had his Chelsea contract terminated in July.He subsequently joined RC Lens in a free transfer.Gianfranco Zola reveals Cole Palmer pledge as Chelsea icons meet for first time after EA FC comment Chelsea player ratings vs LeicesterBy Graham HillCHELSEA survived a late Leicester fightback to win 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.SunSport’s Graham Hill rated each of the players in action.Robert Sanchez – 6He had a few shaky moments playing out from the back, which gave Leicester hope of getting back into the game before the break, but he will not be happy to have missed out on a clean sheet in stoppage time.Wesley Fofana – 7Booed on his second return to Leicester – but he refused to let it unsettle him, the fans could not put him off producing an assured display in the Chelsea defence.Benoit Badiashile – 7Controlled display at the back, he showed some superb vision at times but, apart from a spell in the first half, he was rarely troubled.Levi Colwill – 7Cool, calm and collected in defence – even when Leicester threatened to get back on level terms. A controlled second half display helped keep the Foxes at bay.Marc Cucurella – 7Looked a threat out left going forward and created some of Chelsea’s best opportunities of the game – including their second goal and he knew how to frustrate Leicester when he needed to.Moises Caicedo – 8Booked for dissent at a time when Leicester almost came back into it, but kept his head to make sure Chelsea stayed firmly in command of the game.Enzo Fernandez – 8Set up Jackson’s goal and is making a habit of providing key assists – this was fifth in his last three games.Headed number two from close range for good measure.Noni Madueke – 7Brought an excellent first half save from Mads Hermansen – who then stopped him scoring Chelsea’s second before the break.Blocked a certain Palmer goal though.Cole Palmer – 8Got some unwanted attention midway through the first half after a terrible challenge from Wilfred Ndidi – hit Maduke when he should have scored, otherwise he was excellent.Joao Felix – 6Peppered some shots in early on and proved a thorn in Leicester’s side, but drifted in and out of the game despite being part of a dominant Chelsea display.Nicolas Jackson – 7The opening goal – his seventh of the season – rounded off a powerful run and clinical finish after some help from Fernandez in the build-up. Also had a hand in Chelsea’s second.SubsChris Nkunku: for Joao Felix 81mins – 6Romeo Lavia: for Caicedo 81 mins – 5Jadon Sancho: for Maduke 84mins – 6Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: for Jackson 90 + 1mins – 5 More

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    Bompastor hails Chelsea’s ‘perfect start’ but says team ‘still have a lot of improvement’ to make

    SONIA BOMPASTOR wants Chelsea to stay focused on reality in their title hunt despite their flawless record so far this term. And the Blues boss thinks there is more room for improvement from her undefeated side who beat Manchester United 1-0.Guro Reiten netted the only goal of the game with a spot-kick for Chelsea in the 17th minuteCredit: ReutersBlues forward Sandi Baltimore was named player of the match after another a solid shift as a full-backCredit: GettyChelsea’s win increased their advantage at the top of the table with Man City trailing them by six pointsCredit: PAGuro Reiten’s sixth top-flight goal this season kept the title chase on target for the league leaders at their Kingsmeadow fortress. Melvine Malard came close to snatching a dramatic late away leveller for Man United with her thunderous shot bouncing off the crossbar. But Chelsea did enough to protect their lead and open a five-point gap on Man City, who are second. And the loss for the Red Devils in the WSL leaves the Blues as the only side unbeaten so far this term after eight top-flight games. Read More Football StoriesBompastor said: “In terms of results it’s a perfect start and a 100 per cent win record. But it’s important to stay in mind with reality. “This is really good in terms of confidence, but the reality is even if we beat Man City, Arsenal and Man United, we haven’t won anything yet. “We need to keep a good balance between having the confidence from getting these good results against the best teams in the league. “But we must also make sure we keep our mentality focused on working hard.Most read in Football”We need to progress and the good point is we are winning games and getting points. “But we still have a lot of improvement, especially when we have possession of the ball, being able to hold the ball more under pressure.”Coming into the game United’s attacking ranks had been dealt a fitness blow with Ella Toone and striker Elisabeth Terland both injured. Starting in their place were veteran forward Rachel Williams and Brazil winger Geyse who was the Red Devils’ most dangerous attacking threat. Man United began brightly with forward Geyse leading the way with some powerful runs and decent crosses into the box. But it was the hosts who would break the deadlock after United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce brought Mayra Ramirez down in the box. The game’s only goal was scored with Reiten rifling home from the penalty spot in the 17th minute despite Tullis-Joyce guessing the right way. United came close to equalising in the second half with Geyse forcing Hannah Hampton to parry away her shot away from the top corner And Malard struck the woodwork in the 90th minute. Man United were limited to one shot on target with their strongest attacking threat coming from Geyse (pictured) and Melvine MalardCredit: PABut their hosts held out with loss likely to see Marc Skinner’s side now nine points behind the league leaders. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Red Devils boss said: “Chelsea are running away with it. “All we can do is get closer, try and finish as high as we possibly can, and try and finish in those Champions League places.” More

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    ‘My family are a big inspiration – we love to talk about the game’, says Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor

    THE support of her retired football referee father has been an inspiration for Sonia Bompastor during her rise to the top of the game. The Chelsea chief’s dad was watching from the Stamford Bridge stands, as she guided her side to wins against Manchester City and Celtic.Sonia Bompastor hopes to guide Chelsea to their 12th win in 12 games played in the WSL and Champions LeagueCredit: AlamyA Blues win against Man United at Kingsmeadow would extend the team’s lead to five points at the top of the WSL before the international breakCredit: GettyAhead of their clash with Man United Bompastor’s players booked their place in the Champions League quarter finals by beating Celtic 3-0Credit: GettyBoth matches, played last Sunday and on Wednesday, led the Blues to extend their winning streak to 11 games under their boss.Results that pushed them to the WSL’s summit before a 12 midday clash with Manchester United today, and secured their place in the Champions League knockout stage.Bompastor, 44, said: “I know even when he’s back at home he’s watching the games and I really appreciate talking with him about football.”My family is a big inspiration and they have always been supporting me. We love to talk about the gameRead More Football Stories”My Dad was so happy to come (over here) to watch the Manchester City game, the Celtic game and he sometimes talks about tactics.”He pretends he knows a lot! And I’m like, ‘yes I’m listening’.Bompastor’s father Joaquim, who was born in Portugal, officiated amateur level games in France for more than 30 years before hanging up his whistle.Playing football from the age of six with him and her brother put Bompastor on a path that would later lead her to multiple trophy wins as a player and women’s team head coach at her old club Lyon. Most read in FootballThe former defender, who began her Chelsea managerial role in July, says her father had a knack for honing in on the small details of a game.And a referees’ performance is one aspect he keeps a close eye on.Bompastor, who steered Lyon to seven major trophies including a 2022 Champions League title, added  “We are all passionate (about football).”It’s the common thing we have in our family. That’s what brings us together.”When he comes to a game the first thing he does is watch the referee’s performance.”Today Chelsea play their third home match in eight days when they host Marc Skinner’s Man United at Kingsmeadow.Both sides are the only two teams currently unbeaten in the WSL this term after seven games played with both winning in their last league outings.We’re at the top of the table which is the main goal, but if you think that’s enough at the moment, you will drop some points Sonia Bompastor However three draws from their last four top-flight games has seen United drop six points off the leaders with Skinner coming under pressure from some Red Devils fans.While United will be without Ella Toone and possibly Elisabeth Terland, due to injury, Bompastor is mindful of the other attacking threats Players includes Rachel Williams and ex-Lyon forward Melvine Malard.The Blues chief said: “They have some other good players like Melvine.”I know Melvine and since she joined Manchester United (from Lyon) she’s been on fire (for them).”They also have Rachel Williams who might be starting. “She’s a player we know really well here at Chelsea so we are prepared for that.”She’s good with the ball technically, strong in the air and a really athletic player.”While their opponents are six points off them, Bompastor believes the Red Devils are still a threat in the race for the title.And she has no intention of underestimating her rivals.She adds: “We still have a lot of games to play. Everyone is still in the (title) race.”We’re at the top of the table which is the main goal, but if you think that’s enough at the moment, you will drop some points and won’t be focused.”We need to keep the right mentality, work hard and make sure that in every game we take things game by game.”We want to put all the ingredients together to get a good performance.”Having worked as an academy director for eight years at Lyon from 2013 after retiring as a player, Bompastor is keen to bring more promising young talents rise through the Blues ranks. Chelsea’s win against Celtic included the head coach handing a debut to Lola Brown who came on as a 86th-minute substitute. The 17-year-old, who plays in midfield, is among two teenagers who have featured for Chelsea in the Champions League this season. Wieke Kaptein, 19, who joined the Blues last summer before being loaned back to her old club FC Twente for one season, has made nine appearances in Europe and the WSL this term. Bompastor said: “I know my main job is to make sure we perform, get great results and we win titles. Bompastor is wary of Man United’s attacking threats who include ex-Lyon forward Melvine MalardCredit: PA”But I’m also really focused on developing the players, especially the young ones. READ MORE SUN STORIES”That’s something really important to have in Chelsea’s squad – young players being developed by the coaches and by me. “It’s enjoyable to work with young players when they have the talent.” More