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Frank Lampard and Marcelo Bielsa’s war of words is set to continue, as Derby and Leeds prepare for a clash in the playoff semi-finals.

Both men are only in their first year of managing in English football, but they have already made enemies of one another after the spygate incident.

With Leeds’ recent dip in form Lampard has already fired off his first comments ahead of the semi-final to try and give his team the upper hand.

What’s been said then?

The Chelsea legend has downplayed his team’s abilities in the playoffs stating that they have an underdog status heading into their two-legged tie with the Yorkshire club.

Speaking to Sky Sports (May 5, 14:25pm) after his side’s 3-1 win against West Brom Lampard said:

“It’s a lottery now. It’s anyone’s game.

“We’re underdogs. I don’t want to think about anything past Leeds. They’re a fantastic team.

”They will be two massive games for us. We’ve got our work cut out.”

What is Lampard trying to do?

Of course, the Derby boss isn’t trying to question his side’s chances. He is trying to apply pressure to the Leeds squad and relax his team.

With the Whites heading into this game having won just one of their last four it is hard to say that they are favourites against the Rams over two legs.

Lampard has kick-started the mind games between himself and Bielsa almost immediately after the final whistle was blown on Sunday, and these comments could get into the heads of Leeds’ key men.

The Yorkshire club have been losing games they have been expected to win in recent weeks, and it seems that the label of being favourites can get to them.

They were fancied for promotion not too long ago and as soon as it looked like the Premier League was within touching distance, they capitulated.

Lampard knows that they have struggled with the weight of expectation this season and wants to apply pressure on them once again.