The Sky Blues appeared tense, and manager Frank Lampard noticed it. He believes they must overcome that feeling as soon as possible.
Lampard said this campaign was always likely to be very different from the previous one, but he felt his players lacked composure, with passes missing their usual precision and the team choosing safer options instead of moving the ball forward. He suggested uncertainty may have played a part.
He added that such an explanation was understandable in the opening match because of the strength of the opponents, the significance of returning after 25 years and the number of players making their debuts. However, he insisted it should not be used to justify this result.
Lampard pointed out that Coventry had faced the same team twice during the previous campaign and finished well ahead of them. He acknowledged that competing in the Premier League brings additional intensity and said his side must adapt without delay.
He said the key lesson is that nothing can be taken for granted in the Premier League. With only two matches played and 36 still remaining, he believes the impact of the setback will depend on how the players choose to respond.
Ashley Williams believes the loss could damage Coventry’s self-belief.
The former Wales captain, who helped Swansea earn promotion to the Premier League in 2011, understands how significant early setbacks can be for a team’s mentality.
Williams said Coventry dominated the Championship last season and began the new campaign with considerable confidence. After suffering two consecutive defeats, however, their situation may now feel much more difficult.
He explained that players pay attention to the standings and find it uncomfortable to be near the bottom. Seeing themselves already six points behind Hull could therefore be particularly discouraging.
Williams added that uncertainty can quickly grow after a poor start, meaning Coventry must identify solutions promptly. He expects Lampard to address the problems, although a trip to Manchester City for their next match presents an extremely difficult challenge.
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