Frank Lampard has banned Chelsea’s players from talking about the club’s transfer embargo as he bids to prevent a lowering of standards at Stamford Bridge.

Blues boss Lampard returned to west London last month knowing he would be unable to strengthen his squad until next summer because of sanctions imposed by world governing body FIFA.

Despite the recruitment restrictions, the 41-year-old believes his side can remain competitive after last season finishing third in the Premier League and winning the Europa League under his predecessor Maurizio Sarri.

“I love working with them, I love training with them, I love them as lads because they are very driven and they are like sponges on the training pitch and they bring enthusiasm to training every day, and quality – which gives a great balance to any squad.

“I am expectant, that’s not to try and put too much on their shoulders, it’s what I see every day, that they will deliver and they hopefully dream of being a Chelsea first-team player when they are in the academy.

“That door has to be open for them, and they have to open the door and walk through it.”