Lampard: What I learned from Chelsea's former caretakers

Frank Lampard is aiming to emulate the impact of former caretaker managers Roberto Di Matteo and Guus Hiddink as he starts his own spell as Chelsea’s interim boss. 

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Lampard was playing in the Chelsea midfield when Di Matteo took temporary charge in March 2012 and went on to win both the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup that season. 

He was also playing at Stamford Bridge when Hiddink took over for the final months of the 2008/09 season and delivered the FA Cup.

See: How do returning managers fare?

Taking over a team in the Champions League quarter-finals, where they will face Real Madrid, while sitting 11th in the Premier League, Lampard said: "I've got really fond memories [under caretaker managers].

"I saw how Robbie [Di Matteo] affected the group. Gus [Hiddink] had a great personal touch, a great football brain. I'd be stupid not to rely on things I felt were good. 

"This is my club. [I have] a lot of emotional feelings towards the club. I know there is a lot of talent in this squad. I am excited to work with that talent and help them. That's why I'm here. 

"I have a huge belief in [the players] and I'll tell them that. Modern-day football has big squads and I understand Chelsea might be at the top end. I remember being here before and having that. "

Lampard, Chelsea's record goalscorer as a player, replaces Graham Potter for the final two months of the season after an approach from Chelsea's co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley that he did not see coming.  

"Of course, it was a surprise [to get the phone call]," he said. "When I spoke to Paul and Laurence in the last 24 to 48 hours, they put forward what this is now. It was a decision I came to."

As to the reception he might expect from Chelsea fans, Lampard was sanguine.

"I'm very thankful for the ones who are delighted," he said. "If there are some that are not delighted, they can know I will work my utmost to give them a team to be proud of. 

"I have my idea about where I want to go. To attempt to instil the highest level of confidence with the group, for them to execute and show a level of passion and energy in their game.  

"We want to win as many games as we can. There are big games ahead of us."