“He [Lampard] was one of the leaders [in the dressing room]. I didn’t really see that he would end up becoming a manager. Knowing Frank, he’s very quiet and calm and does his thing." Essien told talkSPORT
“I’m not surprised he took on that job. He knows Chelsea very well and it’s very good for him and I wish him all the best.
“Yes [I have been impressed] because Chelsea is not an easy place to go as a manager or player. His first year he was not allowed to make a lot of signings, but he still managed to do well. It’s a big credit to him and hopefully, they will do even better this season.”
Essien has ventured into coaching himself now, taking up his first coaching role at FC Nordsjaelland in the Danish SuperLiga.
Lampard managed an impressive finish with Chelsea last season but will hope to do better this year, with his new signings already having a great impact on the club.
