Clarke praise for Chelsea duo

Chelsea assistant manager Steve Clarke paid tribute to England duo John Terry and Frank Lampard as the Blues kept their hopes of a third successive Barclays Premiership title alive.

While Terry was an assured presence at the back following his return from a head injury, Lampard took his tally for the season to 20 goals with the winner in the 1-0 victory against Manchester City on Wednesday night.

Clarke said: "John has recovered well. He has had a spell where he has been injured a lot. He has not picked up the momentum - he is still looking to get himself 100% fit."

He added: "But his contribution is great. He is a natural defender, he knows where to be on the pitch and he gives us a calming influence."

England midfielder Lampard sent goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson the wrong way in the 28th minute after Micah Richards had been punished for tripping Salomon Kalou.

It meant Chelsea moved to within six points of league leaders Manchester United with their sixth successive league victory.

Clarke said: "Frank's goal scoring contribution is immense. To score 20 goals at this stage of the season for a midfielder is a marvellous achievement. We are all aware what a vital member of the squad he is."

Substitute Shaun Wright-Phillips could have extended Chelsea's lead against his former club only to see his effort come back off the bar. The champions now take on Sheffield United on Saturday in confident mood.

Clarke said: "We are happy even if it is not always possible to get to the levels you want to achieve.

"Manchester City made it very difficult for us. They are fighting for their lives in the division and we knew it would be a tough game. They huffed and puffed but I do not think they had a shot on target."