Avram Grant has backed Frank Lampard to succeed as a manager at Derby County.
Lampard, who played under Grant during the Israeli’s spell as Chelsea manager, was appointed as Rams boss this week on a three-year deal.
And the hugely experienced Grant believes the former England midfielder, 39, has what it takes to make an impact in his new job.
Grant told The Sun: “I found an intelligent guy that wants to win titles and it was good to talk to him about football.
“I was hoping he would become a manager because the team I had at Chelsea had a few players who were leaders.
“There were a few top players, a few top leaders, and I thought it would be good for them and for football for them to continue their journey.
“So I am very happy Frank is the first one going. He can be a good manager.
“He is a leader. He knows football. He is clever and saw a lot from coaches and different situations.”
Lampard, Chelsea’s record goalscorer, is expected to install former Blues midfielder Jody Morris as his assistant at Pride Park next week.
Morris is currently in charge of Chelsea’s hugely successful Under-18 side.