New boss Thomas Tuchel casts his eye over Chelsea stars as he tries to revive their season - in pictures

German has received a message of support from sacked Frank Lampard

Thomas Tuchel and Billy Gilmour during a session at the club's training ground. Getty

Newly appointed Chelsea manager, Thomas Tuchel speaks before the Burnley game at the weekend. Getty

New Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel with Mason Mount at the club's training ground. Getty

Tuchel oversees his new players at training. Getty

Timo Werner at the Chelsea training session. Getty

Tammy Abraham and Andreas Christensen battle for possession. Getty

Thomas Tuchel watches closely as his players train. Getty

Chelsea's new manager Thomas Tuchel has paid a glowing tribute to predecessor Frank Lampard and said he understands why the club's fans will be hurting at the sacking of the club icon.

In a whirlwind week for the 47-year-old German, he replaced Lampard on Tuesday and took charge of his first Premier League game 24 hours later, a 0-0 home draw with Wolves.

Lampard's sacking on Monday, 18 months after the club's record scorer was appointed, came as a shock for fans even if they are well-used to managerial changes at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking ahead of Sunday's clash with Burnley, Tuchel was asked whether he thought there might be a supporter backlash against Lampard's sacking.

"I hope not because that would be hard on the team. The fans are so close (to the pitch when they are in the stadium) and behind the team, it makes a big difference," he said after overseeing a training session including Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic, Mason Mount and other Chelsea stars.

"I know it was a big disappointment for the fanbase that Frank was sacked and, as I said before, I have the biggest respect. I was a huge fan of Frank as a player.

"To see how he played, he was one of the key figures who demonstrated what the club was all about. I have the biggest respect for him and his legacy."

Tuchel, who made his name as a coach with Mainz before moving to Borussia Dortmund and then Paris St Germain where he won two French titles, said he had received a personal message of support from 42-year-old Lampard.

"I can't change the situation for him. The decision was made and I was handed the opportunity. It's not my fault," he said.

Tuchel said it was a "pretty easy" decision to accept Chelsea's approach and acknowledged he will be judged on results.

"In the end, I am very realistic, I am in a club whose DNA is to win," he said. "I am here to challenge for every trophy we play for. This year it is the Champions League and FA Cup - for the Premier League it is not realistic."

Chelsea are eighth in the table on 30 points from 20 games, 11 adrift of leaders Manchester City who have a game in hand.