Lampard spoke before Tuesday’s match of Chelsea’s need to get their Champions League business done early, and will be delighted with the outcome.
Almost as important as sealing qualification is the fact Chelsea can now rest players for the final two group games, which come during a relentless December packed with tough fixtures.
Their remaining games – against Sevilla and Krasnodar – fall between league fixtures against Tottenham, Leeds and Everton as part of eight games in a month.
They will want to take the clash in Spain more seriously, with Julen Lopetegui’s side having matched the Blues in a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge and their only rivals for top spot, which in theory brings an easier tie in the last 16.
They will be full of confidence, though, having won six matches on the spin since following up that Sevilla stalemate with another at Manchester United in late October.
Tuesday’s victory could have been a bit less stressful for them had they finished the two other clear-cut chances that fell their way during their early dominance.
However, either side of Hudson-Odoi’s goal, Werner somehow found a way to scoop a shot from six yards over the bar and Mount saw a poked effort clawed wide by home keeper Alfred Gomis.
Rennes deserved the leveller when it came towards the end of a second-half display that was full of endeavour but so often short of ruthlessness in front of goal. It is clear to see why they had gone over five hours without a goal prior to Guirassy’s header.
But Chelsea recovered to take the points thanks to the ever-reliable Giroud, who was sent on by Lampard in the 69th minute and rewarded his boss in the 91st with his 30th goal for the club.