[long_read]
Derby County dropped the ball last night in the race for a Premier League spot, losing 1-0 at home to Millwall.
It's left them on the fringe of the play-off hunt, two points behind Bristol City but having played a game more than Lee Johnson's side.
They're now going into a huge clash with Nottingham Forest knowing defeat will see their East Midlands rivals move to within a point of catching them.
This has come after manager Frank Lampard was linked with the manager's job at Chelsea. Their boss, Maurizio Sarri, is under intense pressure and as a former Chelsea hero, Lampard is in the frame for the job.
It would continue a remarkable year for Lampard who only took the Derby post in the summer, before knocking Manchester United out of the League Cup.
His Rams have remained around the top six all season, but have recently hit a run of patchy form and have a mountain to climb if they're to get promoted.
That makes the links between Lampard and Chelsea even more interesting, but FLW don't quite think he's ready for the top job. Here's three reasons why.
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[snack_break title="He's not improved the Rams"]
The harsh fact of the matter is Derby have not improved under Frank Lampard. Not in terms of their league position.
Rowett had them in the top six all of last season, which is what Lampard has achieved.
There's no evidence he's got what it takes to be a top manager and only the loans of young players has improved the squad.
Where would they be without Mount and Wilson?
[snack_break title="Uncertain selection process"]
Last night is a great example. He picked Tom Huddlestone in the middle of the park, a defence-minded midfielder.
It essentially gave them a back five. At home. Against Millwall.
If Neil Harris' side can punish that sort of error, what would Jurgen Klopp do in the top flight?
[snack_break title="Needs to experience more"]
He's been a manager for less than a year and he's being linked with one of the top jobs in England. It's utterly ridiculous.
He's proven nothing. He's won nothing.
He's been linked on name alone and that isn't enough. if he wants a long career in the game, he must stick with Derby and get them promoted.
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