Lampard excited by derby clash

17 March 2013 14:16

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard is looking forward to experiencing the 'extra edge' of his side's derby clash against his former club West Ham.

The Champions League holders host West Ham on Sunday with a victory vital for their hopes of finishing in the top four and qualifying for Europe's elite club competition.

Despite the disappointment of trailing league leaders Manchester United by 22 points, Lampard insists Rafael Benitez's side must forget their Europa League and FA Cup campaigns on Sunday and focus on a strong league finish.

"It's a big game, particularly in the first few years I was here (at Chelsea) – less so now as time's gone by but it's a big game and comes at a very important time for us," he told the club's website.

"Because of the cup games that have been going on we must keep our eye firmly on the league and where we want to finish because of what it means for next season, so for us it's a massive game.

"For West Ham I think they're pretty much secure now in the league but a London derby will always bring an extra edge to it anyway."

Chelsea are two points clear of fifth-placed Arsenal and have a game in hand over Arsene Wenger's men.

They face Manchester United in an FA Cup quarter-final replay and meet Russian side Rubin Kazan in the Europa League.