TV pundit Jamie Redknapp says he expects Chelsea to finish in the top six at least under manager Frank Lampard next season.

The former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder does, however, believe a top-four position will be a very good achievement, considering the London club’s transfer ban:

“I think if they were to finish in the top four that would be an amazing season considering what the club have had to go through in the last year with the transfer embargo,”

“You just have to be realistic. Top six is a certainty with the players they’ve got still and the manager so I have no doubts they’ll do that but top four will be what Frank is trying to do.”

With Chelsea having finished third and won the Europa League under Maurizio Sarri last campaign, it appears Redknapp doesn’t think the squad is capable of matching those levels without Eden Hazard.

The Blues do have one major signing in Christian Pulisic but the American international will have big boots to fill following Hazard’s departure to Real Madrid.

Lampard will look to blood in a few youngsters during his first season at Stamford Bridge and supporters will likely have to be patient with the new Chelsea boss as he stamps on his own mark on the club.

He will, though, have a tough start to the season with the Blues facing Manchester United on the opening day.