This archive report was first published on 13 July 2020.
Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has clarified the team's stance on Manchester City's Champions League ban, stating that their target was always a top four finish in the Premier League.
On July 1, 2020, Lampard reacted to the news that Manchester City's two-year suspension from European football had been overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
"I was never pinning my hopes on whether an extra team got in (to the Champions League)," Lampard said in a virtual news conference. "We are sitting third, it's in our hands. This morning has just made it clear now and we have to fight for it."
Chelsea are currently third in the Premier League table with 60 points, and their next match is against relegated Norwich City on Tuesday.
"We are at a critical stage of the season, Norwich (City) tomorrow then Liverpool and Wolves," Lampard added. "We know our capabilities because of what we have done this season. We have to finish the job."
Chelsea's chances of qualifying for the Champions League have been boosted by Manchester City's ban being overturned, but Lampard remains focused on his team's own performances.
"I genuinely don't see beyond our games. We have games and we want to win them to see if we get into the Champions League. We don't worry about other teams."
