Lampard voices title fears

Guus Hiddink, in charge of the Blues until the summer, has given the side a new lease of life, with three wins on the bounce in the league. But United - on a run of 11 successive Premier League victories and with a game in hand over their rivals - look unstoppable and, although Lampard insists Chelsea will not give up the chase he admits second place may be the best they can hope for.

"Our results since the arrival of Hiddink, especially the important victories against Aston Villa and Wigan, have put us back on the rails but there is still work to do," the England international told Aujourd'hui Sport. "The title is very probably settled even if we intend to fight all the way."

He added: "There is no question of us giving the crown to Manchester United and we are going to believe until it is mathematically impossible.

"And then we will do everything to assure ourselves of second place, which would qualify us automatically for the Champions League next season."

Chelsea turned to the experienced Hiddink after sacking Luiz Felipe Scolari last month and the team's results have improved immediately. Lampard has showered the 62-year-old with praise.

"Our performances have been disappointing too many times this season but the new coach has given us a boost," Lampard added.

"He gives off something. Respect, of course, but also a certain aura.

"All the great coaches I have worked with have that fear factor about them and Hiddink is one of those.

"Recently, we have found our old spirit. We have seen in our last two or three matches that our determination and fighting qualities have returned."