Chelsea’s opener in Japan didn’t go to plan for Frank Lampard and his team as they were defeated by Kawasaki Frontale 1-0, as the J-League reigning champions scored late on to secure the victory. Although much of the (over)reaction has been negative, some of the Stamford Bridge faithful pointed out the performance of Kurt Zouma as a majorly positive talking point.
The Frenchman has returned to the West Londoners this summer following a very successful loan spell in Merseyside with Everton. Zouma made 36 appearances for The Toffees in all competitions, scoring twice and keeping 10 clean sheets – contributing towards his fan-favourite status.
Following the match, Lampard said he wants Zouma to stay at Chelsea this season, stating he is a “fine player and a good man who will benefit our squad.” The Blues didn’t concede with the 24-year-old in defence during their defeat and a number of fans took to Twitter to share their delight following his appearance.
One supporter claimed Zouma is their best defender whilst another suggested that the France international would be an invaluable addition to the team, giving props to boss Lampard.
Others labelled the centre-back as reliable, potentially referring to David Luiz’s poor showing as it was his clearance that let to the resulting winner and one fan even said that Zouma would help preventing one of the defence’s biggest problems which is dealing with crosses.
You can read the best of the reaction from a selection of Chelsea fans below:
https://twitter.com/oakldn/status/1152193169943142401?s=20
Zouma was solid like zuma rock in the heart of the defence in the first half. Subbed for Christensen in the second half.
Good to know Lamps have faith in him. #CFCinJapan #CFC— Red Rose? Chelsea First Lady (@Roseangel009) July 19, 2019
Pleased to hear the gaffa wants Zouma to stay and be a part of the squad. Had 2 decent seasons personally on loan at stoke and Everton. Be great to have him back in a Chelsea shirt this season #CFC #LaZoumance https://t.co/iybB3hXz76
— Sam Clarke ???? (@ClarkeyCFC) July 19, 2019
Absolutely true… If he stays, it will be good for our team ????????????
— Bari (@RejaulBari5) July 19, 2019
Great news! @KurtZouma is an invaluable addition to the team for the season. To be frank, we need quality on the bench as well to ensure games are won. Nice thoughts, Lamps.
— Chimezie B. Dimkpa ???????? (@RICHdimkpa) July 19, 2019
Of course he should stay he’s our best defender by far
— Adam (@Adamcfc9) July 19, 2019
Certain players played well, I thought Mount, Jorginho and Zouma were highlights. Yes, some were awful but it’s a stretch to say every player was bad.
— Tomas Black (@TomasblackCFC) July 19, 2019
Same old confusion when dealing with crosses. Zouma would help a lot in preventing such situations…
bAlL PlaYiNg can wait. (Not that he is too shabby in this department).#CFC— Sudip Majumder ?? (@studipm) July 19, 2019
Zouma has looked good when playing the ball to Jorginho under pressure.
He has improved a lot in the last year and half. #CFC— Sudip Majumder ?? (@studipm) July 19, 2019