LAMPARD: TEN YEARS AND 100 PER CENT

It is 10 years ago this month that Frank Lampard began his first season for Chelsea.

As he looks to hit the ground running at Stoke today, he can do so in the knowledge that the teams he has been in have a good record of doing just that. His very first game in blue was indeed the last time Chelsea failed to win on opening day. In August 2001 we drew 1-1 at home to Newcastle.

A decade on, the vice-captain is looking forward to the challenge of doing better than on that debut day.

'I am feeling good,' he said. 'I have enjoyed all ten seasons I have done and I am looking forward to the 11th, having missed a big portion of last season and the team having not won any trophies.

'It is a big season for us all and I am just pleased to be feeling 100 per cent fit because I didn't have that for a long time last season.I am looking forward getting going.'

This summer has been one of the longest gaps between competitive games for players like Lampard, with no World Cup or no European Championships to keep them busy, and no Community Shield to get the season going a week earlier than for most.

'I am certainly feeling fresher than in a tournament year,' he said.

'After the last World Cup we managed to get about three weeks holiday and came straight back into the pre-season games and the Community Shield, so I have really enjoyed having a clear month, getting away and not doing too much.

'I asked for advice on whether I should work on my groin because I have been injured but I was told to completely rest and I pretty much did that. I always like to do a bit of running but mentally and physically I feel as refreshed as I have done for a few seasons.'

I'd say more than 100 percent Seriously though he works more than what he should.

Nooo... Lampard your slow