TheCable

Chelsea Football Club have announced the dismissal of Frank Lampard after 18 months as head coach.

The London-based football team broke the news in a statement on Monday. It added that the decision became necessary to give the “club time to improve performances and results this season.”

Lampard was sacked barely a few hours after the Blues defeated Luton Town 3-1 in the FA Cup fourth round. The result was, however, not enough for the former English midfielder to keep his job.

“Chelsea Football Club have today parted company with Head Coach Frank Lampard,” the statement read.

“This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.

“We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.

“There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.”

The former Derby County manager was appointed head coach at Stamford Bridge in July 2019. During his first season, he guided the club to Champions League qualification and the FA Cup final.

He was thereafter given the necessary backing by Roman Abramovich, the club’s owner, in the summer transfer market as Chelsea spent more than £200m on seven new signings, including Kai Havertz and Timo Werner.

Chelsea have flattered to deceive in recent weeks after embarking on a 17-game unbeaten run in all competitions earlier this season.

Commenting on Lampard’s dismissal, Abramovich said the decision was very difficult and that the 42-year-old will always remain an important icon at the club.

“This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him,” he said.

“He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances, we believe it is best to change managers.

“On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future. He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”