Chelsea manager Frank Lampard praised the development of striker Harry Kane this season, and said on Friday that victory over London rivals Tottenham Hotspur will be a real confidence booster for his side.
Chelsea welcome table-toppers Spurs to Stamford Bridge on Sunday as Lampard goes up against Jose Mourinho, who he played under during the Portuguese's successful first spell in England between 2004 and 2007.
Mourinho has revitalised current club Spurs this season, and Lampard believes Spurs striker Kane, who has leads the league on assists (nine), has helped Mourinho bring about such improvement.
"Harry Kane is in a sweet spot at the moment," Lampard told reporters.
"He has matured as a player, he is a very impressive player and I think he is an intelligent player and that is why they are in a strong position."
Chelsea have impressed of late themselves, having won six in a row in all competitions, and Lampard is targeting a seventh on Sunday, in spite of Spurs' recent good form and the manager he is up against.
"You don't have a record like Jose's without being a top class coach," Lampard added. "Tottenham are in good form, they have good players, a good manager and it will be a tough game.
"It is extra special because of the rivalry between the two teams, it adds spice. It remains special and because of the league positions, it is important.
"When you play rivals, it is important to try and win those games for confidence."
Lampard also confirmed winger Christian Pulisic is available after recovering from a hamstring injury, but conceded it may be too soon for the American to start on Sunday.
(Reporting by Peter Hall; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
