Pellegrini had earlier criticized Chelsea’s ‘Small team’ tactics after the 1-1 draw on Sunday. Chelsea drew first blood through Andre Schurrle after Argentine defender; Pablo Zabaleta bagged his second yellow of the game to be sent off.

Chelsea didn’t want Frank Lampard; otherwise he would be playing for them. ‘I told him to go and score. I was so sure he would play well against Chelsea because he is a very good professional. I am very happy for him. He has experience and he has quality.’ Pellegrini said.

Frank Lampard did score the equalizer five minutes from regulation time much to the agony of Chelsea fans who gave him a standing ovation before his introduction into the game.

I think it was very similar to the Stoke game,” the former Real Madrid gaffer said.

“It was very difficult because they have very good players, but they had nine players in front of their box.

“We had chances, especially in the second half, to open the scoring, but we couldn’t do it.

“After they scored we showed our character, with the way we played with ten men.

Pellegrini accused Mourinho of setting up his team to defend and only launch on the counter. City perhaps showed real intent from the first blast of the whistle forcing Chelsea to sit deep, curbing the excesses of the City offence.

“I think it will be very difficult to defend the title because teams are playing the way Chelsea played against us.

“I didn’t think they had an intention to win the game, just to score on the counter-attack.”

Pellegrini, who did not want to discuss Mike Dean’s decision to dismiss Zabaleta, added: “It wasn’t a pleasure to draw.”

Frank Lampard spent 13 years in the Blues colours before he was let go by Chelsea. Lampard during the summer signed with New York City FC but came on loan to City in order to stay fit ahead of the 2015 MLS season when NYCF will be able to compete.

Lampard showed his soft, emotional and professional side when he refused to celebrate his goal that drew City level. After the game, it was a rousing appreciation from both fans for Frank Lampard who scored 211 goals for Chelsea and has now opened his Manchester City account as well.