Frank Lampard believes Chelsea are capable of challenging for the Premier League this season.

The New York City FC star has backed the Blues, for whom he served 13 years as a player, to go head-to-head with his other former team Manchester City for the 2016/17 premiership.

"Being at Chelsea for such a long time I have an allegiance so I would obviously like Chelsea to win the league and I think they'll be back challenging," the 38-year-old told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I do fancy it being between Chelsea and Manchester City this year."

City kicked off with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday while Chelsea host West Ham United in their season opener on Monday night.