Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic believes he is able to express himself more freely on the pitch under current boss Frank Lampard than he could do under Maurizio Sarri.
The Croatian international was originally signed on a one-year loan deal from Real Madrid last summer, and he completed a permanent move to the club in July.
He had a mixed first season at the club, making 51 appearances in all competitions but occasionally receiving criticism for inconsistent performances.
However, he has started the new season brightly under a new manager and believes Lampard is bringing out the best in him.
"He gives me more freedom and I can take the ball and go forward. I feel good," Kovacic said. "A good connection with the coach and all the team. I am a Chelsea player now so I feel better about that. Last year was only a loan. I feel better and more confident than last year.
"I am missing some part of my game and I can improve and get better, but I think it will come for sure."
Kovacic failed to score and only created one assist last season, but the 25-year-old believes his performances will only keep getting better and better under Lampard.
He added: "He gives us more freedom to play, more creativity. We can change positions. We are aggressive. We are doing well but it is only one month with the coach so we can improve.
"Last season was also a good connection with the coach. It was also a good year last year. The connection is good. The fans love him and so do the players. He is young and he understands us."
Chelsea will be looking to build on their first win of the season against Norwich when they host Sheffield United next weekend.
