Chelsea’s champion self-belief inspires Lampard

Frank Lampard believes there is a growing self-belief within the Chelsea squad ahead of their London derby against his former club West Ham in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Chelsea lie third in the division, currently two points behind leaders Arsenal, who could increase their advantage if they win away to Southampton on Tuesday.

But the Blues’ seventh consecutive victory in all competitions — a 1-0 victory against Stoke last weekend in the fourth round of the FA Cup thanks to Oscar’s match-winner — has enhanced the ever-increasing confidence at Stamford Bridge.

And Lampard, who skippered the team against the Potters, insists his teammates, who have not lost at home under Jose Mourinho in a remarkable 72 fixtures, are developing the mentality required to win silverware come the end of the season.

“There’s a good feeling around the place,” said Chelsea midfielder Lampard.

“With the manager coming back it probably took a while for him to get his points across but, in the last couple of months we’ve found that mentality and feeling in the dressing room where we’re going out there with more confidence.

West Ham United striker Andy Carroll (L) and Newcastle United’s Cheick Tiote pictured during the …