Michael Ballack speaks on Frank Lampard's success as Chelsea manager

Former Chelsea star Michael Ballack has said that he is not surprised by the early success which Frank Lampard has enjoyed as the Chelsea head coach.

Lampard took over the managerial role at the Blues during the summer but he did not have the best of beginnings with the club winning just one of the opening five games in all competitions.

However, the west London giants have since been on the up in terms of the performances and they recently went on a seven-match winning run before the League Cup fourth round exit at the hands of Manchester United.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Ballack said that he is not surprised by Lampard's good beginning with the Blues, he told: "No, not really, because if you are talented - if you know football and if you are a really hard worker.

"He was always as a player -I could imagine he's the same as a coach, and obviously he is. I think he likes to prepare well before a game and that's really important as a manager."

Chelsea will be aiming to return to winning ways this weekend when they face bottom side Watford away from home. They are genuine favourites to secure maximum points with the Hornets yet to win a league game this term.