Glen Johnson believes that if Chelsea can continue to play in the same manner as they have been then they could easily break into the top four this season.
Chelsea, despite being tipped by many before a ball was kicked to be the team to miss out on Champions League qualification this season, have started well under the guidance of Frank Lampard.
The Blues currently sit outside the top four on goal difference and have won all four of their games in all competitions since being beaten by Liverpool in the middle of September.
And Johnson believes his former team-mate can not only secure Champions League football this season, but is also building bridges for the next couple of years.
"If Chelsea can keep going as they are, they could easily break into the top four," the recently retired right-back told BETDAQ.
"I’ve always said if Frank Lampard could get them into the top six he’s done a fantastic job and with the way United and Spurs are going, he could do even better than that.
"Everything he’s doing this season is building bridges for the next couple of years, especially as they haven’t been able to add to their squad.
"If he can keep improving his players, this Chelsea side will be in a very good spot once the new faces are able to be brought in.
"The whole transfer ban could turn out to be a bit of a blessing in disguise as it’s forced the club to bring the likes of Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham through and, providing they keep going as they are, they look to have some potential stars on their hands."
Meanwhile, Johnson has been full of praise for Blues' striker Tammy Abraham, who scored his ninth goal of the season in the 4-1 win against Southampton last weekend.
"I’ve been really impressed with Abraham. I really didn’t think he could translate his form from the Championship to the Premier League, but he’s shown he’s more than up to it," he said.
"There is such a huge difference between the two leagues, so to do what he’s done so soon into his Premier League career is very impressive."
