Lampard keeps the faith

Drogba future not an excuse for Bordeaux shock

Last updated: 27th November 2008

Frank Lampard sent off red card Bordeaux v Chelsea Champions League

Lampard: Misses big game

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Frank Lampard is adamant that Chelsea can get their faltering Champions League campaign back on track, even without his services in their crucial final group game.

A shock 1-1 draw in Bordeaux means last season's beaten finalists may have to beat CFR Cluj at Stamford Bridge to progress in a match Lampard will miss after his dismissal in France.

"It is frustrating to miss the final group match because it's going to be a

big game for us," said the England midfielder.

"We have to believe that we can beat Cluj at home. Roma and Bordeaux have been tough games and we haven't got the results we wanted.

"Now we have to produce at home, which we believe we will do.

Respect

"I don't think teams have worked us out. It's more when you get to a certain level teams give you respect.

"They work hard to stop you playing and that's what teams are doing to us in the Premier League and in Europe.

"It's hard to go through a season and keep performing at the top level and I think it's fair to say the last few weeks we haven't been."

Lampard denied that fresh uncertainty over the future of striker Didier Drogba had been a distraction for Chelsea.

"I don't think so. We were dedicated to trying to win the game and Didier came on and tried to do that. It is for Didier and the club to talk about," he added.