Frank Lampard, the manager of Chelsea, said on Friday that the team is afraid of Nottingham Forest since they are still in the relegation race even if Chelsea’s season may be done and there is nothing left to play for.
With 33 points, Forest is three points above the relegation zone in 16th place. The team of Steve Cooper has been in and out of the relegation zone in recent weeks, but two victories in their last three games have given them a lift as they head into the final stretch.
When Chelsea defeated Bournemouth last weekend, it was Lampard’s first victory as interim manager, but the former midfielder insisted that it was only a “small step forward” for the London side.
Chelsea had gone nine games without a victory in all competitions.
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“I think in football it can (change the mood) but we cannot get carried away with a win,” Lampard told reporters ahead of Saturday’s home game.
“Another game comes in the Premier League against a team fighting for their lives.
“It’s a big test, we have to give them (Forest) complete respect.
“They have an effective way of playing.
“They are very threatening in terms of set pieces and fighting for everything.”
Ben Chilwell, who suffered a hamstring injury and will likely miss the remainder of the season along with Reece James and Mason Mount, will not play, though.
“I feel for him. We miss big players. Reece, Mason and Ben are big internationals,” Lampard added.
With Lampard’s previous team Forest one point behind Everton in the relegation struggle, Chelsea’s victory would aid them.
However, when they play league-leading Manchester City later this month, Lampard’s squad may also have a say in the title race.
“Maybe, but Everton’s fate is in their own hands at this point,” Lampard said.
“It’s not in my concerns. I lived that life last year.
” I have a lot of connection to the club and the year that I had there was a really enjoyable time for me.
“We play for pride in every game no matter what the consequences for anybody else. It’s our consequences that we are concerned about.”