Mateo Kovacic has revealed that Frank Lampard has given him 'more freedom' than he had last season at Chelsea under Maurizio Sarri.
The 25-year-old was on loan from Real Madrid in the 2018/19 campaign, but had a poor season with no goals and only one assist throughout the Premier League season.
Despite that, the Blues signed the Croatian on a permanent deal as they are in the middle of a transfer ban but were able to extend his registration with the west London club.
In just three Premier League matches so far and the Super Cup, Kovacic has already made a much bigger impression, playing in a more attacking manner and linking well with Jorginho in midfield.
And even though he explains he had a good relationship with Sarri, he believes Lampard has already added an extra element to his game.
"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.
"It makes me feel more relaxed as last year was difficult and I needed to prove myself. Last year was also good, not perfect, this year I started well and I hope to continue like that.
"I am missing some part of my game and I can improve and get better, but I think it will come for sure.
"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. We have a good connection with the coach."
