Claude Makelele has defended former teammate Frank Lampard's work as Chelsea manager.

Along with playing alongside Lampard for Chelsea, he was also part of his management team in his first spell in charge.

Makelele told the Mirror: "It's a difficult situation - not just for Frank - it would be for any other coach.

"You could have brought in Guardiola, Mourinho or whoever you think is best. But they would have problems because he was dealing with very new players.

"He did not know their background and everything that is going on. Frank accepted the challenge. The victory on Saturday should have done some good and caused some joy."