Branislav Ivanović has backed Chelsea manager Frank Lampard, insisting he is the right man to lead the Blues.
Lampard made an emotional return to Stamford Bridge in the summer, replacing the departed Maurizio Sarri.
His first season has proved to be a success for the most part, with Chelsea sitting fourth in the table and on course to qualify for the Champions League.
A poor run of form in the last couple of months has seen the chasing pack get closer, though, with Lampard receiving plenty of criticism for his side’s struggles.
“Frank is the right person, in the right place and in any job he will succeed,” he told Marca.
“The problem with coaches is that they need results and titles, but I think they are doing a fantastic job and it is not easy. If you do it as a coach as you did as a player…”
Away from the pitch, the focus at Chelsea is firmly on owner Roman Abramovich, who is now in his 17th year of owning the club.
The Russian bought the Blues in 2003, investing heavily in the playing the squad to turn Chelsea into serious contenders in Europe.
His ownership sparked an influx of foreign investors in the Premier League in the following years, and Ivanović has nothing but respect for him.
“For me, he is one of the most important people in my career, and I will repeat it again and again,” he added.
“Especially when I arrived at Chelsea, he supported me, and I really appreciate it. I think the world of football changed.
“He was the first to make a great investment in football, and after him, many clubs have had the same idea.
“He is very intelligent, of course, and has been very successful. I hope to see him very soon at the Bridge.”
