Insider reveals Frank Lampard’s immediate reaction after Coventry’s defeat to Arsenal

Coventry City can take positives from their opening weekend defeat to Arsenal.

That is the view of Frank Lampard’s former assistant Jody Morris after he spoke to the Sky Blues boss following their 3-0 loss on Friday.

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The Gunners cruised to a comfortable home win at the Emirates Stadium as they began their Premier League title defence in style.

It came as Coventry made their return to the top-flight following a 25-year hiatus.

They were the only newly-promoted side not to win, though, as Ipswich Town and Hull City both claimed victories.

Despite their wins over Sunderland and Manchester United, respectively, Morris believes Coventry remain a better side.

Morris on Lampard reaction

The former Chelsea midfielder joined Jeff Stelling and Ally McCoist on Monday’s talkSPORT Breakfast show.

When asked about Coventry’s defeat, he revealed he had spoken to Lampard after the match.

Morris explained: “I spoke to him yesterday [Sunday], but I was like the first two goals that Coventry conceded were avoidable. They’re just mistakes that got punished early doors.

“Ok, Arsenal could have won by a lot more, but the first two goals were pivotal. Giving away a two-goal lead to the champions doesn’t get any easier.

“But I thought that there were positives for them and you’re right, when you’re looking at what Ipswich and Hull have done in week one of the new season, you’d have to say, they’re a better team than both of them.

“So let’s see, but I thought that there were positives for them, but you can’t ask for a harder start, playing against the champions.”

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Morris previously worked under Lampard as his assistant manager at both Derby County and Chelsea.

They also made 39 appearances together for the Blues between 2001 and 2003.

What’s next for Coventry?

Lampard will be hoping his side can kickstart their season with a win this coming weekend.

The Sky Blues will play their first home match of the campaign on Saturday afternoon against Hull.

Their meeting at the CBS Arena last term ended in a goalless draw.

A victory would be the hosts’ first in the Premier League since beating Sunderland in April 2001.

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Following their relegation the following month, they have spent time in all three EFL divisions, including a season in League Two.

Ahead of the visit of Hull, Coventry face League One Plymouth Argyle in the Carabao Cup second round on Tuesday.