Former Derby County captain Michael Johnson has told Chelsea to show his club "respect" over their pursuit of manager Frank Lampard.

Lampard remains favourite for the Blues job, though talks with Derby are yet to commence.

"There has been no direct contact made by Chelsea, but you can't get away from the noises and it's probably going to be more 'when' than 'if'," Johnson, who is currently managing Guyana at the Gold Cup, told Sky Sports.

"From our side, from Derby's side, we want that little bit of respect from Chelsea's regard.

"If you're going to make the approach, just make the approach; be open and transparent about it.

"If we're going to move on, then allow us to make that process happen. If not, then let's squash all the rumours, allow the fans to relax, enjoy the summer and focus on Frank being our manager next year.

"We want to keep him, we want him to be our manager and, if there is to be an approach from Chelsea, then let's be open and honest. The longer it goes on, the more disconnected we are as fans and as staff and that's not right."

Johnson also serves as an ambassador for the Rams.