Chelsea charge back to summit

CHELSEA delivered a powerful statement of intent as the title race enters a crucial stage by crushing in-form Birmingham to move back to the head of the table.

First-half goals from Florent Malouda and Frank Lampard laid the foundation for victory before a second Lampard effort on the stroke of full-time emphasised the home side’s superiority.

The manner of the win spoke volumes about the qualities of Carlo Ancelotti’s side – in particular Lampard who the coach hailed as world class – and reinforced the view they are ready to end Manchester United’s three-year tenure as champions.