Chelsea disappointed 11,000 Russians inside the Krasnodar Stadium but managed to keep the most important one entertained. There was no danger of Roman Abramovich drifting off as he watched Frank Lampard’s gifted forwards rack up the goals in southern
Russia. After stodgy stalemates with Sevilla and
Manchester United, defensive stability accompanied attacking flair, helped by Hakim Ziyech marking his first start for his new club by leaving Krasnodar’s back four dizzy.
Ziyech was outstanding on the right wing, creating, probing and making it 3-0 after a slick combination with Timo Werner, another glamorous summer signing. For Abramovich, watching first hand what his funds have bought, it was a night to savour. As for Lampard, it was a glimpse of where the pieces might fall after receiving heavy backing from Chelsea’s owner, who was present to see his club in the flesh for the first time in over a year.