Cool-headed Lamps key to Chelsea's title hopes: Ballack

London, Dec. 22 (ANI): Frank Lampard's ice-cool ability to bang in penalties at crucial times will take Chelsea to the top of the Premier League table, believes Michael Ballack.

The England star did not let a rare miss from the spot at Manchester City on December 5 affect him as he fired home the penalty winner against Portsmouth six days ago.

Then, on Sunday, he sealed a vital point at West Ham with a spot-kick he was forced to take three times by referee Mike Dean because of an alleged encroachment.

That draw moved the Blues four points clear of second-placed Manchester United in the battle for the Premier League title.

The German midfield star is convinced Lampard's display of guts merely reveals why Chelsea will maintain their lead and their bottle over the vital holiday period.

"We have shown in the past we can handle this situation with our squad. Hopefully, we can take full points," The Sun quoted him, as saying.

If Chelsea do succeed in taking six points off Birmingham on Boxing Day and Fulham next Monday, it will make a change.

Ballack reckons it is much better to be ahead of the pack rather than chasing. (ANI)