Frank Lampard admits pressure after Southampton defeat

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has admitted that his team are under more pressure following the disappointing 2-0 Premier League defeat to Southampton at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues were sublime during their 2-0 derby win over Tottenham Hotspur prior to Christmas and it appeared that they had turned the corner after managing just one win from the previous five league games.

However, their struggles continued against a Saints side under revival and goals from Michael Obafemi and Nathan Redmond sealed a comfortable win for the visitors on Boxing Day.

Speaking after the game, Lampard acknowledged that there is more pressure on the team, given they have lacked the cutting edge to their gameplay in the final third in recent weeks.

"There is more pressure, everyone is talking about it. We are not playing like the Chelsea to break them down," he was quoted as saying in the post-match press conference.

Chelsea are still placed fourth in the Premier League standings. Their advantage over the fifth-placed side could reduce to two points, should Wolves beat Manchester City on Friday night.