Cheslea FC: Fernando Torres and Frank Lampard Struggling Under Villas-Boas

Andre Villas-Boas has had a rough time during his tenure at Chelsea with two of his marquee players.

Frank Lampard, an “iconic” player according to Villas-Boas, and newly-purchased Fernando Torres have not been playing up to their ability for the new Blues manager.

Lampard sat the entire time in Chelsea’s 4-1 victory over Swansea City. Villas-Boas defended this decision,

"

Lampard is an iconic player and a fantastic player. Yes, for sure, still a key player, no doubt about it. He's been doing magnificently well for the team. He started five games, played 90 minutes in four of them and there's nothing to say. He's a fantastic player and we count on him like we count on the others.

"

Jamie Jackson of The Guardian offers his opinion that,

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Lampard was an unused substitute but, according to Villas-Boas, reports of the death of his Chelsea career are greatly exaggerated, with the rationale being that after 76 minutes (plus penalties) of the midweek Carling Cup tie against Fulham, the midfielder was merely one of nine rested players on Saturday.

"

What doesn't make sense then is his refusal to talk about Fernando Torres.

Torres was looking like one of the best players on the pitch for most of the first half. However, he slowed down and looked hesitant towards the end and was dispossessed. Torres became frustrated and slid with both boots towards Mark Gower and hit him.

The Spanish-international was sent off with a red for this with his head down.

Villas-Boas described the sending-off as a "pity." He added: "There is nothing [for Torres] to apologise for. The sending-off, I have nothing to say, it looks a good decision by the referee."

It seems that Torres is falling out of favor with the Chelsea side and his constantly bad decision-making and misfires are making them regret opening their wallet for him this offseason.

It will be interesting to see how Torres does with the club going forward into the next transfer window.