Numerous reports from last week touted that the Blues are keen to offer a deal for their former midfield maestro, Frank Lampard, which is certainly rhythm to ears for the Chelsea faithful. After two successive years with New York City FC, the 38-year old announced his departure recently. Widely revered as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, Lampard took the Major League Soccer by storm, racking up 15 goals out of 29 matches.
Appreciating his instant impact, NYC’s manager and Arsenal legend, Patrick Vieira spoke proudly about the England midfielder after waving goodbye.
Vieira said: “Everybody talks about Frank’s goal scoring record but I can tell you, after a year of working with him, he brings so much more to a team than just goals.
“What Frank has brought to the locker room is something just as important. His experience, his elite mentality and his mentorship of our younger members have helped us greatly this year.”
Till today, Lampard has been a benchmark for the Blues, having spent 13 years, notching 211 goals in 649 appearances and securing three Premier League trophies. During his final term with the club, just like any ageing legend, chances to break into the first team endured mixed fortunes and Chelsea allowed him to leave as a free agent.
Plenty of clubs instantly purred offers but Lampard’s move to MLS was no coincidence, considering the similar footpaths of fellow countrymen like Steven Gerrard and David Beckham. However, a twist in the tale occurred a month later when NYC’s parent club Manchester City brought Lampard back to the Premier League. Keeping aside the furious debates over his dubious contract, he rapidly relished the ploy on the pitch by scoring vital goals, especially the trademark volley finish that halted Chelsea’s perfect winning streak in the season. Nevertheless, he didn’t celebrated and described the moment to be very emotional.
Having said emotional, Lampard would be tempted to work together with Conte yet the west London club is interested in having him only if he retires from playing. Also, looking at Chelsea’s rich vein of form of late, it would be surreal to sign Lampard who would be at the root of the midfield’s pecking order. On the other hand, offering a role as their backroom staff will certainly help the development of their young players.
There are also grapevines suggesting that the former Chelsea legend himself is eyeing a switch into a coaching role but destination seems to be his biggest hurdle. Reports say that FA chiefs have contacted both Lampard and Gerrard in hope that they will aid England’s progress. On a side note, the former Liverpool captain has also ended his career at the MLS. If coaching it is, will it be club or country?
Sandwiched between these rumours, the Telegraph newspaper revealed that Sky Sports is ready to offer him a role as a pundit. It would be a more fashionable role, and a small respite from his playing career, before opting for a managerial shift. Besides that, having seen Thiery Henry, Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville heating up arguments in spiffy suits, Frank Lampard would be the missing link that Chelsea fans eagerly wait for.
Acknowledging the hype surrounding his future, Lampard released a statement on his Instagram account that he will be making an announcement on his future very soon. Footballer? Coach? Pundit? Fabulous Frankie is just spoilt with choices.