Chelsea icon Frank Lampard urges patience over future of Antonio Conte as he backs beleaguered Blues boss to rediscover title-winning formula

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Chelsea icon Frank Lampard believes the club need to show a bit of patience in allowing Antonio Conte the time to turn fortunes around.

Conte's men currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, nine points behind league leaders Manchester City as their bid to retain their crown has failed to ignite this season.

However, speaking at a Chelsea Foundation event in Tokyo, the former England international believes the Italian's performance during the previous campaign should not be forgotten, and think he can turn it around this term given time.  

Chelsea icon Frank Lampard believes Antonio Conte should be given more time as boss

The Blues legend was attending a Chelsea Foundation event being held in Tokyo, Japan 

 'Antonio Conte came to Chelsea at a time when they'd finished 10th in the Premier League the year before. It was a difficult period for the club, we don't come 10th — that doesn't happen normally,' Lampard said.

'To change that around with pretty much the same group of players shows what a great manager he is.

'Great tactically, great with the players, the players work very hard together.

The former England international also took a training session outside the British Embassy 

Lampard poses alongside the Premier League trophy with kids and coaches after the session 

Lampard watches on as children go through passing drills on the lawn outside the Embassy

'Last season they won the league very comfortably because of Conte's management. I think to a big degree.

'We're very early in the season now. Unfortunately in the Premier League if you don't win every game people start talking about your job.

'But I think with Conte, everybody close to Chelsea knows what a great manager he is and I hope he stays and I think he'll be more successful.'

The former No 8 even took part himself in dribbling exercises in the Japanese sunshine 

Lampard surprised a few fans by photobombing their picture with the Premier League trophy

One fan in particular was shocked to see the Chelsea ambassador hiding behind his shoulder