Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has said he's not been surprised by Tammy Abraham's brilliant start to the season.
The 21-year-old, who spent last season on loan Aston Villa, has certainly benefited from the club's summer transfer ban and the decision not to sign Gonzalo Higuain on a permanent basis.
Handed the number nine shirt by new head coach Frank Lampard, Abraham lead the line for the Blues in their opening Premier League game of the season away at Manchester United.
Despite a goalless first three games as well as missing a penalty in the UEFA Super Cup loss against Liverpool, Abraham has responded to his critics with seven goals in his last four appearances across all competitions.
Whilst some weren't sure if Abraham had the quality to succeed at the very top, Drogba says he never once doubted the young striker.
"Yeah, I've known him [Abraham] since he's been like this," Drogba told Sky Sports. "These are kids we used to see, they used to come and watch us training, and I believe they learned a little bit of our skills, how we read the game.
"So, you know, we're not surprised because I also trained with them when I used to train with the reserve team.
"It was always a moment for me to give away some skills, some knowledge, and they learnt really fast, really quick.
"So once again, I'm not surprised with what I've seen [with Abraham]."
Drogba also believes that Lampard focus on bringing through the youth will be a success.
"I think he (Lampard) is focusing on Chelsea and it happens that he needs to work on young players, to give them a chance," Drogba added. "Being an ex-player from the club, it helps a lot because we've seen all these kids when we were training.
"So, you know, you have to give them a chance and when you do, they deliver.
"They've been performing.
"Of course, there will be maybe a lack of experience in big games like Champions League but I'm not worried.
"I'm really happy with the work that Frank is doing right now. And the fans, and the people who know football, they understand."
