LONDON: Frank Lampard admits his management still needs time to close the gap with Liverpool at the top of the English Premier League after losing 2-0 at the hands of the defending champions.

Sadio Mane scored both goals within four minutes early in the second half for Jurgen Klopp’s side after causing a red card on Andreas Christensen in the first half.

Chelsea spent a lot of money in the transfer market to strengthen the offensive machinery but failed to address the more important problems on the defensive side.

Lampard was only able to bring down two new players, Timo Werner and Kai Havertz in the starting line-up, with Ben Chilwell and Judge Ziyech injured while center-back Thiago Silva has not recovered.

“All successful teams take time, through the process and our process starts here. Not from last year.

“Last year we couldn’t do anything (due to the transfer ban) so we worked hard until we got fourth place.

“Our goals and expectations are higher, but it takes time,” Lampard said.

The win put Liverpool in the top group with Everton, Arsenal and Crystal Palace scoring full points after two games.