“I understood the challenges … I want to thank Mr Abramovich”: Frank Lampard breaks his silence with a kind statement after being sacked by Chelsea – and says it has been a huge “privilege and honor to manage” the club
Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has revealed his frustration at losing his job and has admitted he had wanted more time this season in his first public statement since he was sacked by the club.
Blues legend Lampard aired a reaction to his dirty looting on Monday evening, telling fans he hoped he would be allowed to try to improve on Chelsea’s stuttering fortune this season.
Responding through the Association of League Managers, Lampard said: “It has been a privilege and an honor to run Chelsea, a club that has been an important part of my life for so long.
Frank Lampard said he hoped to have more patience to improve Chelsea before being destroyed
The club’s all-time top scorer was sacked on Monday after sad Premier League results
“First of all, I would like to thank the fans for the incredible support I have received over the last 18 months. I hope you know what that means to me.
‘When I took on this role I understood the challenges ahead at a difficult time for the football club.
“I am proud of the successes we have achieved and I am proud of the academy players who have made their way to the first team and have had such a good performance. They are the future of the club.
‘I am disappointed not to have had time this season to advance the club and take it to the next level.
The 42-year-old also shared his words on Instagram, receiving a deluge of supportive responses
Lampard thanked owner Roman Abramovich, who admitted it had been “difficult” to do so with him.
The pair enjoyed years of trophy-laden glory together when Lampard was Chelsea’s midfielder.
“I want to thank Mr. Abramovich, the board of directors, the players, my coaching staff and everyone at the club for their dedication and work, especially in these challenging and unprecedented times.”
“I wish the team and the club every success for the future.”
Lampard had been under pressure after five defeats in eight Premier League games, although his abrupt departure at the start of the day had still been a shock to many fans.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich took the unprecedented step of explaining the ruthless move as part of the club’s announcement, calling it a “very difficult decision”.
Lampard has now joined the stature of Jose Mourinho (center) to receive his marching orders
Some of the fans who celebrated Lampard’s arrival as coach intend to continue to honor him.