Frank Lampard admits Chelsea are underdogs for Saturday night's UEFA Champions League final but sees it as a great challenge.
Chelsea skipper claims 2008 defeat is inspiration against Bayern
Frank Lampard admits Chelsea are underdogs for Saturday night's UEFA Champions League final but sees it as a great challenge.
The Blues face Bayern Munich in their home city with the German side being the first club to enjoy that advantage in the Champions League era.
Although tickets will be allocated equally between the two sides, Lampard has no doubt that it makes Chelsea's opponents the favourites.
"The atmosphere here is amazing," he said.
"We've sampled a bit of it from airport to hotel. It gives them an advantage.
We can play around with how much so, but playing at home, in your own changing room, the city with your fans - it's an advantage.
"But to be underdogs gives you a determination. Bring it on. The fact they're the home team is a great challenge for us."
Captain
Lampard will captain Chelsea on the night, with John Terry suspended after being sent off in Barcelona during the second leg of the semi-final.
"My emotions won't be different," the 33-year-old said of the honour.
"I'll be very proud. You might take on slightly more responsibility, but it won't make too much difference."
There has been much speculation about Terry's role on the night if Chelsea win the game - specifically whether he will lift the trophy.
But it is not something Lampard is dwelling on.
The England international midfielder added: "We've not spoken about post-match.
"I'm the world's worst at tempting fate. The idea of working out your celebrations before you play the match doesn't work for me."
Heartbreak
Of course, the Stamford Bridge outfit have experienced Champions League final heartbreak already, losing on penalties to Manchester United in Moscow in 2008.
And Lampard believes that will inspire Chelsea to ensure there is no repeat.
"We've been lucky enough to win finals and leagues in England, but occasionally you lose," he said.
"We remember that feeling of losing, that disappointment, and we'll use that to inspire us to win.
"We're lucky to have taken part in all these matches, but we want to be part of the Champions League and win it."
