• Premier League

Mourinho has not changed - Lampard

Lampard and Mourinho embrace after winning the 2007 FA Cup final © Getty Images

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Frank Lampard insists that Jose Mourinho has not changed since returning as Chelsea manager, despite claims from the Blues boss that he would be less emotive in his second stint at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho vowed to become a "father figure for Premier League managers" after returning to Chelsea during the summer.

However, the passion and fire he has been noted for throughout his career has been in evidence again in recent weeks as he has clashed with referees, the game's authorities and his own players.

Lampard, though, believes the Portuguese should retain those qualities that helped him to become one of the game's biggest names, as he confirmed that he is enjoying working with the two-time Champions League winner once again.

"He is who he is. He used to get quite upset and quite vocal with a loss, but I always liked that about him because then you know where you are," Lampard told talkSPORT.

"Some managers don't say anything after a bad result, and you're left wondering what they're thinking. For me, one of the beautiful things about him is his personality and that hasn't changed.

"I was delighted he came back because I knew what a great manager he'd be for the club and for me. At that later stage of your career, it's great to have a manager you trust and who understands you and you understand him.

"We have a lot of young players here too. They need direction, a good leader and someone to take them forward. For me, he was the man that was going to do it."

Lampard went on to reveal that Mourinho was unforgiving in his post-match debrief following last week's 2-0 away defeat at Newcastle, while a response is expected in Saturday's game against West Bromwich Albion.

"He was very to-the-point [at Newcastle] on Saturday, and he was right in what he was saying," Lampard said. "At the same time, when we win he's very emotional with the lads and celebrating.

"I think his experiences elsewhere have probably tempered him in different ways. But, looking at it from where we are as players, he hasn't really changed."

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