Frank Lampard wary of comparisons to Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League winners after Sevilla thrashing
Blues’ victory in Seville marked four straight in the competition – a feat last achieved in 2012…
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Frank Lampard has said he does not wish to tempt fate after Chelsea matched a feat achieved by the club’s Champions League winners.
The Blues’ 4-0 win at Sevilla in the group stage marked their fourth victory in a row in the Champions League, and the last time a Chelsea side won four straight in the competition was in 2012 – the year in which they lifted the trophy for the first and so far only time.
Lampard played for the west London club that season as they went all the way in Europe, but the former midfielder was coy when presented with the statistic following Wednesday’s win.
“I wasn’t aware of that,” the Chelsea manager said. “I do like superstitions, but I also don’t like tempting fate.
READ MORE: Champions League standings and fixtures – all games by date and kick-off time
“Listen, I am pleased with where we are at. The levels go up in the next stage and I am thankful that we have qualified for it and topped the group at this early stage.
“It is great for the confidence but the levels will go up, competition goes up, we found that last year. We are in a different place and we are improving, I feel that.”
Striker Olivier Giroud netted all four goals as Chelsea won in Seville, and his side are now on a 15-match unbeaten run in all competitions.
“I look at Oli today, but you could look around at other performances in that team with Jorginho, [Antonio] Rudiger, [Cesar] Azpilicueta and others,” Lampard said.
Giroud has sat third in the Blues’ striking pecking order so far this term, behind Tammy Abraham and new signing Timo Werner.
“The recruitment and now the competition has started to be really positive in the group,” Lampard said, “with players trying to get in the team and train at the top level every day.
“I have to put a small warning next to that, because people will get excited, particularly after a result like in Seville. But, as always, consistency is what wins you titles – Premier Leagues and Champions Leagues.
“We can't play like we did on Wednesday and then drop the level. Sustaining that level is what will bring success.”
This weekend get a £10 free bet with Betfair, when you bet £10 on a Same Game Multi on the Premier League. Terms: Min £10 Same Game Multi bet on any EPL match this Fri - Sun. Free bet valid for 72 hours, awarded at bet settlement. Excludes cashed out bets. T&Cs apply.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments