Twenty-five years in the waiting - Coventry's nightmare top-flight return

Coventry have waited 25 years to return to the Premier League, but their inaugural season is proving to be a calamity. The club's opening matches have been devastating, with four straight losses, all failing to register a goal. The most recent humiliation came in a 5-0 drubbing at Brighton's home ground, a far cry from their 2012/13 season which saw them narrowly avoid relegation despite a similar start.

This dismal start to the season is the worst since 1919-20 when Coventry lost their first nine matches. Their lack of goals sees them only the fifth team in history to lose their first four matches while also failing to score at least once.

Coventry's performance against Manchester City appeared promising, with 12 shots and an expected goal (xG) of 1.37. They also showed promise in the first half against Brighton, creating several chances. However, their defense unraveled in the second half, leading to Brighton's second goal and a red card for Taiwo Awoniyi. Coventry now have a run of 46 consecutive league losses since March 1999.

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane criticized Coventry's defending, suggesting they look like a Championship side. He also warned that Lampard must prevent them from losing focus. This situation is not unfamiliar for Lampard, who previously led Coventry to promotion from the Championship in a successful season, but his Premier League record with Chelsea and Everton is less impressive.

Lampard acknowledges the challenge, stating they need to raise their level. He emphasized their commitment to working hard, despite the pressure of the top flight.