Frank Lampard acknowledged the significant decisions he faces as Coventry City prepares to take on West Brom this weekend. The City manager emphasized the importance of maintaining competitive depth in the backline, stating, “We’ve got options at the back and that means everyone has to be on it all the time. The centre-back position can be a conundrum; you need four because three isn’t enough.”
Lampard highlighted the high level of training among his centre-backs leading up to the match against Middlesbrough, noting the strong performances from players like Bobby Thomas and Joel Latibeaudiere. He expressed his confidence in the team’s defensive options, which also include Wolfie and Kit.
Bobby Thomas, who recently returned from suspension, is anticipated to start in the upcoming match. Lampard praised Thomas’s progress during his tenure, remarking, “Bobby’s been a big part of my time here. His development from day one to now shows it. If he’s consistent with his focus and training, he’s, for me, if not the best centre-back in the league, one of them.”
The Sky Blues are currently enjoying a successful stint at the top of the table, having recently defeated former leaders Middlesbrough 3-1. In contrast, West Brom is struggling, yet to secure a victory in 2026 and sitting in 21st place, just two points above the relegation zone. Following the sacking of Ryan Mason earlier in the year, new manager Eric Ramsay has been assigned the challenge of keeping the team afloat.
Lampard remarked on Ramsay’s appointment, saying, “I know Eric a little bit from his time at Chelsea. It’s not easy coming into this league. I wish him really well and obviously, we’ll go up against him tomorrow.” This weekend’s clash not only carries significant implications for both teams but also highlights the resilience and adaptability required in competitive football.