LONDON: Frank Lampard has finally been confirmed as the new team manager of Chelsea where he spent 13 successful yers as a player.

Lampard has only one year’s experience in management behind him, at second tier Derby County who he guided to the promotion play-off final where they were beaten 2-1 by Aston Villa.

The 41-year-old has agreed a three-year contract back at Stamford Bridge where he became the Premier League club’s record all time goal scorer with 211 goals.

Lampard said: “I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach. Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead.

“I am here to work hard, bring further success to the club and I cannot wait to get started.”

The former England midfielder has voted Player of the Year three times during his time at Stamford Bridge and fans have continue to sing his name regularly since he left in 2014.

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia added: “Frank possesses fantastic knowledge and understanding of the club and last season, he demonstrated he is one of the most talented young coaches in the game.

“After 13 years with us as a player, where he became a club legend and our record goalscorer, we believe this is the perfect time for him to return and are delighted he has done so.”

Lampard’s assistant Jody Morris and first team coach Chris Jones at Derby will also move to Stamford Bridge, with Derby confirming a compensation agreement has been agreed between the two clubs.

Former Dutch international Philip Cocu is expected to replace Lampard at Derby on a four-year contract.

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