Lampard announces he is leaving Chelsea
Frank Lampard has announced he is leaving Chelsea after 13 years at the club.
The England midfielder’s contract at Stamford Bridge expires this summer and he has been tipped to move to the United States and sign for New York City FC.
Lampard, 35, was signed from West Ham for £11m in June 2001 and netted 211 goals for the Blues, replacing Bobby Tambling as their all-time leading scorer.
He won the Premier League three times with Chelsea and was also part of their 2012 Champions League-winning side.
In a statement, Lampard paid tribute to club owner Roman Abramovich, former chairman Ken Bates and the supporters – among whom he is a hugely popular figure.
The statement read: “When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success.
“This club has become part of my life and I have so many people to thank for the opportunity.
“Firstly, Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun this experience.
“Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our club and took us all to new levels. His desire to push the club to the top of the football world has rubbed off on everyone.
“All the managers and coaches who have helped me develop my game during the time I have been here. I have learnt from every one of them.
“All the brilliant team-mates who I have been lucky enough to train and play alongside for so long – not just their football qualities but also the friendships I have gained along the way.
“I’d also like to give a special mention to all the staff and people behind the scenes at the club who do not receive the glory but without them the club would simply not function.
“The club will move forward, and as a Chelsea man I have no doubt that with the quality of the players that are there, they will continue with the success that we have all enjoyed over the past seasons.
“Finally and most importantly, I would like to thank the Chelsea fans. I believe they are the greatest fans in world football.
“You have supported me from the moment I arrived. Not only on the pitch, but in difficult moments in my personal life off the pitch. I will never forget.
“I feel honoured to have shared so many special times with you. Bolton, Amsterdam, Munich, the list goes on and on. I, and we as a team, could not have achieved those moments without your support.
“Whatever the next challenge is for me I will always be amongst you and have Chelsea in my home and in my heart.
“Hopefully I will get to see you all soon to say goodbye properly. In the meantime thank you for the memories and keep making history!”
Lampard is reported to have had offers from 16 clubs around the globe but is not expected to announce a decision on his future until after the World Cup.
He made 649 appearances for Chelsea and also won four FA Cups, two League Cups and the Europa League.
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