NYCFC's Frank Lampard admits there's 'immense pressure' to make MLS playoffs

Despite it being the inaugural MLS campaign for New York City FC, designated player Frank Lampard has revealed the pressure he and his teammates feel to deliver a playoff run.

Chief executive officer Ferran Soriano, along with director Claudio Reyna and head of player recruitment David Lee, has overseen huge investment at the new franchise, adding experienced players such as World Cup winners David Villa and Andrea Pirlo.

There is also exciting young talent in the side, with United States international Mix Diskerud and Ghanaian Kwadwo Poku.

Lampard, who plundered 11 major trophies during his time at Chelsea, is concerned about NYCFC's record of 28 points in 27 games, which leaves them ninth in the Eastern Conference.

"The pressure on us is immense, but there are still enough points to be won. But it's no use pointing that out - we need to win games," Lampard told German football magazine kicker via ESPN FC.

Injuries have restricted the 37-year-old to just 167 minutes of action since he joined from Manchester City on July 1st, but he has been impressed by what he has seen of Major League Soccer so far.

"The atmosphere during our derby with New York Red Bulls was incredible, basically no different to a match in the Premier League.

"There is a lot of intensity in the games, they are exciting and it's open who comes out on top."

After 20 seasons of Premier League football, the Englishman has settled well in New York, and would certainly like to stay in the Big Apple for a while.

"Should the club ask me whether I would like to stay longer, I would be delighted. Let's wait and see."