Chelsea manager Frank Lampard says playing in the Champions League is the "ultimate" in club football.
The Europa League holders return to the competition tonight when they host Valencia in their opening group game.
Lampard was captain when Chelsea won the Champions League in 2012 and he's excited to be in charge of his first game in the competition this evening.
“I will be proud to do it. I had multiple incredible nights in the Champions League, and some bad ones, but it is the ultimate in club football for me.
“There is something about nights at Stamford Bridge, something about the Champions League music and I want to experience it on this side of the fence. I am excited.”
Chelsea warmed up for the game at Stamford Bridge by defeating Wolves 5-2 in the Premier League last weekend but the former England midfielder says Europe will be a step up for his young side.
"I'm confident but very aware of the dangers," he said.
"Our target is to qualify from a tough group. It is different.. the main thing is that the concentration levels throughout the game have to be spot on. The different level can surprise you.
"I have belief in the players. I think we have talent that can blossom in the Champions League.
“That’s not to say you can get away with things in the Premier League, but the higher level of player in the Champions League and different style of game can sometimes surprise you.
“The Valencia team that travel for this game are fantastic on the counter-attack and they can hurt you in one second when you feel like you are controlling the game, so it will be that focus throughout that will be the main point.”
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