FRANK Lampard heaped praise on ‘leader’ Bobby Thomas ahead of Coventry City’s clash against Fulham this weekend.

The Sky Blues sit one place above the Cottagers in the Premier League table following a 3-1 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur in their last outing.

Fulham beat Hull City 1-0 at Craven Cottage last weekend as Alvaro Arbeloa secured his first win as Cottagers boss.

And Lampard feels Fulham’s results this season do not reflect the club’s performances on the pitch.

Lampard said: “It’s clear to see Fulham’s results are not aligned with their performances.

“We know the importance because they’re around us in the table but it’s a very challenging game.

“In expected terms they’re not in the position they’re in, they’re much higher in the league than that.”

Coventry thrashed Newcastle United 4-1 in their last home game at the Coventry Building Society Arena.

Defender Thomas received rave reviews for his performance against the Magpies and has been one of Coventry’s most consistent performers since promotion to the top flight.

And Lampard believes Thomas is playing with more confidence and has become a leader at the back for the Sky Blues.

Lampard added: “Bobby has always been a centre-back with lots of potential and lots of character.

“He’s got a willingness to get better and we’ve tried to help him but more than he’s helped himself.

“He’s really focused on becoming this player we’re now seeing.

“There’s something about his demeanour and his way as a leader in the team and he’s even improved that side of it.

“He’s got more confidence in his own game so he can start helping people around him.

“There’s a big progression in that on and off the pitch for him and he’s showing his true talents.”

Earlier this week, Coventry midfielder Gustavo Hamer asked to feature for the club’s under-21 side in a bid to play more minutes.

Hamer has made just four substitute appearances for the Sky Blues in the Premier League since returning to the club this summer.

Lampard said: “He wanted to play and get minutes and I like that.

“We’ve got a competitive squad now and his area of the pitch is competitive.

“Gus has been very good to work with since he’s come back to us

“Me and my staff have been really impressed with his approach.

“Gus is going to help us.”

Coventry host Fulham on Saturday, October 24 with kick-off at 3pm at the CBS Arena.