By VIKKI ORVICE
The Blues travel to interim manager Rafa Benitez’s old club Liverpool tomorrow battling for a Champions League spot.
They are currently in third place, a point above Arsenal and three ahead of Spurs.
But Lamps believes that in order to be back challenging for the title — and the Champions League trophy — the club need to stick with a manager.
He said: “I don’t think it’s right to talk about any names while Rafa Benitez is in place now — although we all know his role and what is happening at the end of the season. I know people are talking about Jose Mourinho coming back.
“He’s a fantastic manager and there is no doubt about his credentials.
“But it would be nice, whoever comes in, to have a good crack at consistency and staying in the job.
“And I think the fans would be happier if we get a manager who can stay more than half a season!” The midfielder (left) added: “Chelsea are a winning club. It was almost a disaster last season — and then we won the Champions League and it became the best season in our history.
“We are in that critical time now, not just for the manager but us as players — and we need to perform individually and as a team and try to make it successful.
“We’re fighting to be third and are still in the Europa League. We’ve had years when we have won nothing. You can’t always have it your own way.”
Lampard, speaking as the Champions League trophy was handed over to London ahead of the Wembley final next month, added: “Things change. My big concern is challenging for third this season rather than challenging for first, which is what we’ve been used to — and that’s where the club needs to be back at.
“Elements of this season have been difficult. Getting knocked out of the Champions League and not keeping up our league form have tested us.
“But the big picture is you want to be successful at the end of the season.
“Last year proved that we can turn things around — you have to give a bit of credit to us as a club.
“People talk about a crisis and up-and-down seasons and you still find yourself with a chance of a cup and Champions League qualification next year. A lot of teams won’t get that.”
Lampard, who is out of contract this summer, is two goals off the club record of 202 but has not scored since March 17, against West Ham.
He said: “I’m very proud to be on 200. I’ve only played a few games since that West Ham match and the manager put me in a deeper role.
“Goals never come easy. The most important thing is to be part of a team performance like the other night, when we won at Fulham.
“If I get the chance to play in a few games like that, I think the goals will come.
“Everyone knows my contract is up at the end of the season but I’m just worried about the next few games. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t thought about it but at the minute nothing is happening.”
