Lampard knows it’s going to be tough against Atletico

CHELSEA manager Frank Lampard believes facing Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16 is “the toughest draw we could have had”.

The Blues have been given a difficult obstacle to climb as they seek a first Champions League title since 2012, with fellow Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester City drawn against German opposition in RB Leipzig and Borussia Monchengladbach, respectively.

Atletico are only being kept off top spot in LaLiga on goals scored compared to Real Sociedad, and have not lost to the Blues in their last six European encounters.

Lampard said: “I think most people will say it’s the toughest draw that we could have had. When you go on form, how they’ve been in LaLiga, European experience, quality of team and player, I think most people would say that.

“On the other hand, all draws are difficult in the Champions League. We have to have belief in ourselves and, when that game comes around, you’re going to have to beat these sort of teams if you’re going to win the Champions League, so it is what it is.”

The first leg will be played in Spain on February 23, with the return match at Stamford Bridge scheduled for March 17.

Manchester United will face LaLiga leaders Real Sociedad in the final 32 of the Europa League, while Tottenham Hotspur will play Wolfsberger.

Ole Gunner Solskjaer’s United side dropped into the competition after they were knocked out of the Champions League last week.