Chelsea legend Ashley Cole: Lampard has was it takes to become a "top manager".

The Blues finished fourth in Lampard's first season in charge at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard and his Blues at Goodison Park. [Getty]

....and this season, they're considered as serious title contenders this term after spending big in the close season.

Ashley Cole has lauded his former teammate Frank Lampard, saying the Chelsea record goalscorer is proving that he can become a 'top manager' in the future.

Lampard led the Blues to fourth spot in the first season at the helm at Stamford Bridge and in the 2020-21 campaign so far, they are recognised as one of the sides that could win the Premier League title.

The west London club missed an opportunity to go top of the English top flight over the weekend as they were beaten 1-0 at Everton and slipped down to fifth, three points behind table toppers Tottenham.

However, former England left-back Cole is convinced his compatriot is on the right path to achieve great things at Chelsea.

"They have strengthened in areas they probably needed to," Cole told Stats Perform News, courtesy of Nissan. "They have a lot of strength in depth now in the squad.

"Of course we know he was an elite player, can he be an elite manager? I think he's got the credentials.

"He's got everything, so far this season, that I can see will make him a top, top manager."

The former Arsenal defender said of Chelsea's summer signings: "I think it was important to address maybe the weaknesses from last season, which they did. Now you're starting to see the team gel.

"They still need to gel a little bit more of course, but that will take a little more time. But I think the signs are there that the team are improving.

"Defensively they're more solid, and attacking wise they're always a threat. Timo Werner in there, Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount coming from left or central areas.

"I think they're playing now with a very positive attitude, and they'll get that winning mentality with a few of the players they've added as well."

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