Holland: Let The Football Talk  (Sky Sports)

Chelsea assistant first-team coach Steve Holland has hit back at Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini over his 'small team' taunt.

Pellegrini likened the approach of Jose Mourinho's side to Stoke City following Sunday's 1-1 draw at the Etihad, after Chelsea record scorer Frank Lampard had rescued a point for the hosts.

Holland, undertaking media duties prior to Wednesday's Capital One Cup third-round tie with Bolton in place of Mourinho, said: "Chelsea have scored 16 goals in five matches this season, which without being petty, Manchester City have scored eight in five... twice as many.

"Jose has always been very clever tactically against the bigger clubs. Last year proved that. I'm sure he'll continue down that line.

"I don't think there's any need to respond beyond that. We'll just continue with our work and try to win as many football matches as possible."

Despite the loss of two points at Eastlands on Sunday, Holland is convinced the Londoners can go all the way to their first title since 2010.

"Last year we hoped, this year we believe... and there is the difference," added Holland.

"We feel the depth we have in the squad, the balance we have in the squad, physically, mentally, tactically, the team has progressed and the team is ready to put on a real challenge.

"But we also know there will be other clubs that feel the same and it will be a difficult contest right until the end."

Looking ahead to Bolton, Holland hinted Mourinho is likely to ring the changes for the Stamford Bridge tie.

"We have had a small group of players that I'm sure have been frustrated in the first couple of weeks not to have played more and will get an opportunity to show what they can do tomorrow," he said.

"To have a trophy on board March time puts you in a good place for the conclusion to the season. But this is a game we have to be wary of and give full respect to the opposition.

"We had an experience against Swindon, who were League One, last season that was uncomfortable. We survived it. You underestimate clubs and teams in a lower league at your peril. You'll be in trouble if that's the case."