Chelsea boss Frank Lampard sets personal target amid Mauricio Pochettino links ahead of Brentford

Chelsea caretaker boss Frank Lampard says he is focused on ending the season on a high and not letting talks of the possible arrival of Mauricio Pochettino distract him.

Lampard took over from Bruno Saltor, who lasted just one game following the sacking of Graham Potter. Lampard was drafted in to try to rescue the campaign but four defeats in his first four games have left everyone feeling flat and already looking forward to next season.

Former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has been widely reported to be the favourite to get the key to Stamford Bridge, with backroom staff and the length of the contract being discussed with the 51-year-old Argentine manager.

But Lampard, who would have inwardly hoped to impress and possibly land the job permanently, is not getting distracted by what the board is doing and just wants to focus on getting the wins that will lead to a challenging campaign.

He told the press ahead of the game against Brentford: “I’m not going to get involved in any new manager talks as it’s all speculation.

“I understand what is happening but I don't have the mentality that there is nothing to play for and we have to compete for every game.

“There have been challenges but football is about challenges, and we have to keep going.”

Chelsea are 11th on the league table and could go 12th if Crystal Palace win at Wolves this evening. Lampard will be desperate to get his first win since returning against Brentford on Wednesday night.