Frank Lampard has expressed his sympathy with Jose Mourinho on the scheduling issue that means Chelsea will have two extra days recovery for Sunday’s crunch London derby.
Third-placed Blues - who can qualify for the Champions League knock-out stages with a win in Rennes on Tuesday - face current leaders Spurs this weekend where victory could see the Stamford Bridge side climb to the top of the Premier League.
The local derby is traditionally one of the fiercest in English football, with the long-standing relationship between Lampard and Mourinho adding extra spice to an already powder-keg occasion.
But Mourinho is sure to be frustrated by the fact Chelsea will have 48 hours extra recovery and preparation time for the top of the table clash.
And when asked if he felt a level of solidarity with his former boss over Tottenham’s quick turnaround ahead of Sunday’s game, Lampard said: ‘Yes, always. I couldn't sit here and maybe complain.
'I’m not sure, with the Europa League contenders, in terms of what team José can pick.
‘He’s got a very strong squad, he can make rotations, so that remains to be seen. I think they're in a strong position in their group.
‘And then have three days of recovery for Sunday. And Sunday, for both teams, if you’re not going to get up fresh and ready to attack a London derby, then you shouldn’t be in this game, and that goes for both teams.
'So it remains to be seen. José will probably make some rotations for their Europa League game.’