Fan Focus: What is the secret behind Frank Lampard's success? Coventry fan Glenn lifts the lid!

Yesterday at 02:00 AM

Ahead of today's visit to Coventry, we spoke to Glenn of the All Things Sky Blue Podcast to discuss their playoff surge under new boss Frank Lampard - who should we be wary of?

Back in November, Coventry sacked long-serving manager Mark Robins - what were the key factors behind that decision?

The decision to sack Mark Robins came after a series of disappointing results and a noticeable dip in form, despite his previous successes at the club.

The team was struggling to find consistency, and there were concerns about the style of play becoming stale. Despite his loyalty and contributions, it seemed like a fresh approach was needed to reinvigorate the squad and push for higher aspirations.

I remember when you came to the Stadium of Light the game after fans sang his name. Do fans wish it had ended in a better way?

Yes, there was certainly a lot of emotional attachment to Robins, especially after the success he had brought the club.

Fans appreciated his commitment and the improvements he had made during his tenure, including the promotion to the Championship.

Many fans likely hoped for a more graceful exit, but ultimately, football is a results-driven business, and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made.

The man to replace him was met with quite a severe level of scrutiny in Frank Lampard, but boy has he proved most football fans wrong. Did you expect to be back in the playoffs so soon?

Frank Lampard was certainly a surprising appointment at the time, and many were skeptical given his prior managerial experiences.

However, Lampard's pedigree and his understanding of the game quickly began to shine through.

While it may have seemed ambitious to expect a playoff push so soon when he joined, Lampard's tactics and leadership have certainly propelled the team back into contention for promotion via playoffs.

Coventry are on a marvellous run of eight wins in 11 matches - what has Lampard changed to improve your form?

Lampard has instilled a greater level of discipline, tactical flexibility, and belief in the squad.

He's tightened up the defense while encouraging a more dynamic and attacking style of play. His ability to adapt to different opponents has been key, and the players seem to be playing with more confidence and purpose, knowing they're well-drilled in his system.

When a new manager comes in certain players tend to thrive more than before. Who are your standout players under Lampard so far?

A couple of players have truly stood out under Lampard. Midfielder Jack Rudoni has been excellent, controlling the tempo of the game and contributing to both defensive and attacking phases.

In attack, Ephron Mason-Clark has continued to impress, using his pace and clinical finishing to get on the scoresheet regularly. Both have been key to the team's resurgence.

Ellis Simms' goals seem to have dried up this season - what are the key reasons behind that and how has he faired under Lampard?

Ellis Simms has faced a dip in form this season, partly due to a lack of service and the shift in team tactics under Lampard.

Simms for me works best in a front two with a striker alongside him. While Lampard has focused on building a more cohesive team approach, Simms has struggled to find the same opportunities as before.

However, Lampard has continued to support him, and there's optimism that with the right tweaks in play, Simms will get back to his goal-scoring best & finish the season strongly like last season.

In January, Coventry signed experienced players Matt Grimes and Jamie Paterson. What have they brought to the table?

Both Grimes and Paterson have been fantastic additions, bringing a wealth of experience and composure to the squad.

Grimes has added quality in midfield, offering both defensive stability and the ability to dictate play with his passing.

Paterson, on the other hand, has been a creative spark, contributing with his experience and adding depth to the attacking options.

How do you think Lampard will set up to try and beat Sunderland?

Lampard will likely set up with a balanced approach, focusing on pressing high up the pitch while maintaining solid defensive structure.

Expect to see a possession-based game where the midfield plays a key role in controlling the tempo.

Lampard will want to exploit Sunderland's defensive gaps and use the pace of players like Simms, Mason-Clark & Wright to stretch their backline.

Are any players missing and who do you think will start?

As of now, there may be a few injury concerns as Jack Rudoni is unlikely to play due to a shoulder injury.

There are also doubts over Ben Sheaf, Brandon Thomas-Asante & Ephron Mason-Clark due to niggling injuries.

The core of the team will likely feature regulars such as Dovin in goal, Bobby Thomas at centre half , and Grimes in midfield. Lampard will probably go with his strongest XI, but any minor injuries or tactical decisions could lead to some rotation.

I say it every time we talk, but unfortunately, it's still no win against Coventry since 2007 for Sunderland - what is your prediction for the final score?

Given Coventry's current form and Lampard's tactical discipline, I'd expect Coventry to take the win again.

However, the first goal will be crucial as we've only won once under Lampard when we've conceded first.

Sunderland will make it tough, but I'm going for a 2-1 win for Coventry, continuing that long unbeaten run against Sunderland.