Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has said that Chelsea must make a quick start to the new Premier League season if they are to challenge for the title.

Chelsea made a slow start to the league last season, which meant they were never really in the hunt for the title as they ended up sixth overall.

Lampard has warned his teammates that they must get off to a better start this time around.

"Every season, you have to get off the blocks right away. If you lose ground early on, like we did last year then it's gone," the midfielder told Kick Off magazine.

"Every year the competition just gets harder. You see teams out there that have lots of money to buy players. Man City more than anyone. Man United are always strong, so we have to make a good start."

Lampard has made 374 league appearances in more than 10 seasons at Chelsea.