Direct Speech Article

REACTION: SOME DESERVED LUCK

Frank Lampard and John Terry both felt we deserved the three points against Tottenham on Saturday, and are primed for the coming weekend's showdown at Old Trafford.

The midfielder struck a controversial equaliser just before half-time at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, his shot appearing to be clawed back by Spurs goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes before it crossed the line, and Salomon Kalou struck a late winner to take us within three points of league leaders Manchester United who were beaten at Arsenal yesterday.

“I thought I deserved a bit of luck and we got it today,” said Lampard, who had a more clear-cut goal for England ruled out at last summer's World Cup. “I thought it did [cross the line] with the way he scuttled back and clawed it out, but as you watch it on the telly it's harsh on them but I think with our performance today and desire we deserved the result.”

“We're fighting to the end. We showed our character today and you've seen it in the last six weeks. We deserved the win, you can talk about the goals but I think with our character and the way we played we deserved it.” said Lampard.

Terry marked the day with his 500th Chelsea appearance, and now feels we are in a strong position heading north on Sunday.

Speaking on his milestone, the captain said: “I'm very proud actually. Looking back on it when I was 17, 18, I'd never have predicted where I am today. I'm delighted, I've got a great rapport with the fans and I'm delighted to hit 500 and I want even more. I've got three years left on my contract and that's what I aim to do.”

The 30-year-old then assessed the title race, which has reopened with three games remaining.

“We certainly never gave up,” Terry said. “This is the ideal situation for us. Man United have dropped more points than anyone would have thought and they've still got some tough games.”

“It could come down to us going there. If we go there and lose the game then fair play to them, but I think they know we're certainly capable of going there and getting a result.” said Terry.

Terry also said “Whatever happens they've got a tough game away to Blackburn and Blackpool at home last game of the season so it could come down to goal difference. We've got a home game after them against Newcastle and it's important we keep going.”

“We go into the game really fresh with a full squad of players and with belief as well. We went there in the Champions League and were very disappointed, they've come here and got a very good result but on the day, as we showed last year going there and winning 2-1, there is no reason why we can't do it again.” said the captain.