These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Barkley tipped to shine

The Mirror feels Ross Barkley could be set for a big season with Chelsea under the guidance of Frank Lampard.

In analysing our 2-1 victory over Barcelona in Japan, the paper suggested in its talking points that our new head coach and all-time club record scorer could help to unlock the goal-scoring potential of the former Everton player.

‘[Barkley] has never managed double figures in a Premier League season, with eight for Everton in 2015/16 his best return,’ said the paper after the England midfielder found the net with our second goal in Saitama.

‘He has the quality from a technical aspect, that is certain; it has always been about mentality with Barkley.

‘Lampard was someone who, as a player, got the most from himself. If he’s challenging Barkley to do more and more this term, then he could have a big campaign in west London.

The Independent also believes Barkley could play an important role for the Blues in the upcoming campaign.

‘This season was always going to be a big one for Ross Barkley. His time at Chelsea has been hampered with injury and the fact that they are blessed with midfielders,’ it stated.

‘He came on for the last 30 minutes against Barcelona and really changed the game in the final third. Playing as a number 10, his favourite position, he showed a fantastic eye for a pass and the Barcelona defenders were unable to get close to him.

‘He capped off a fine cameo with a decent strike from range to wrap up the win, controlling the ball then sending it beyond the goalkeeper with his left-foot just outside the penalty area.’

Allardyce surprised no club has signed Cahill

Speaking on TalkSport, former England manager Sam Allardyce has expressed surprise no club has signed Gary Cahill since the defender was released by Chelsea.

Cahill became a free agent earlier this month after his contract with the Blues had expired, but while the former Blues captain has been linked with several clubs including Arsenal, Aston Villa, Burnley and Championship side Leeds United, he has yet to sign for a team for the 2019/20 season.

‘I can’t believe he hasn’t been picked up,’ said Allardyce, who worked with Cahill during his brief time as England manager.

‘I would sign him tomorrow. Any Premier League football club should get him. He is as fit as a fiddle.’

Allardyce feels the addition of the 33-year-old would be of enormous benefit to a newly promoted club like Villa.

‘He would be great for Aston Villa, with his experience, to help them stay in the Premier League for a couple of seasons.’

Baker looking forward to Bundesliga challenge

After sealing his loan move to Fortuna Dusseldorf, Lewis Baker has told the German club’s official website of his excitement at playing in the Bundesliga.

‘I am very happy that it has finally worked out after the negotiations in the last few days,’ said the 24-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough and Reading.

‘I cannot wait to join my new team and meet everyone. It will be an exciting challenge for me to play in the Bundesliga. For me, the Bundesliga is one of the top leagues in the world.’

Fortuna finished 10th in the Bundesliga last season, their highest finish in the German top flight since 1990, and their sporting director, Lutz Pfannenstiel, hopes the addition of Baker can help the team to improve further.

‘I know and have watched Lewis Baker since he was in the youth team at Chelsea FC. At Vitesse Arnhem, he was one of the outstanding midfielders in the Eredivisie at a young age,’ said Pfannenstiel.

‘He brings everything you need as a central midfielder. He is strong, dynamic and dangerous. I am sure that he will set new standards in the Bundesliga and will do well for our creative game.’