Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has his eyes on the Premier League title, and he’s taking no chances in ensuring that his players remain fully focused.
According to a leaked penalty list from Stamford Bridge, the manager has imposed a strict disciplinary regime on the young squad with a range of hefty fines, including £500 (Ksh66,000) for every minute they are late to team meetings. Players are also charged £20,000 for being late for the start of training.
Any player not reporting an illness or injury before a day off or an hour-and-a-half before training can expect a £10,000 fine, while lateness for treatment, medical appointments or match-day departure will cost £2,500. A phone ringing during a team meal or meeting will set a Chelsea player back £1,000, as will wearing the wrong clothing for team travel or match-days.
Other fines include £5,000 for not turning up to fulfill corporate or community duties, the same amount for not traveling back from a match on the team coach without giving 48 hours’ notice and £1,000 for a late appearance at the gym.
The fines are doubled if not paid within 14 days, with the money going towards team activities and charities.
Lampard took over at Stamford Bridge in the summer and his strict regime appears to be working, with his side lying third on the Premier League table after a run of six straight wins.
He’s however, downplayed the pressure-claim insisting their main aim is to first close the gap behind leaders Liverpool.
“If we can keep replicating the form, keep replicating the results, then we can certainly close the gap and I think that is the first step,” he said.