‘I understood the challenges … I want to thank Mr Abramovich’: Frank Lampard breaks his silence with a gracious statement after being fired by Chelsea – saying it is a tremendous ‘privilege and honor to lead the club’
Axed Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has revealed his frustration with the loss of his job, admitting he’d wanted more time this season in his first public statement since being fired by the club.
Blues legend Lampard responded to his brutal resignation Monday night, telling fans he hoped he would try to improve Chelsea’s stuttering fortune this season.
Lampard responded through the League Managers Association: “It has been a privilege and an honor to lead Chelsea, a club that has been a big part of my life for so long.
Frank Lampard said he had hoped for more patience to improve Chelsea before he was axed
The club’s all-time top scorer was fired on Monday after dismal results in the Premier League
First of all, I would like to thank the fans for the incredible support I have received over the past 18 months. I hope they know what that means to me.
When I took on this role, I understood the challenges the football club faced in a difficult time.
‘I am proud of the achievements we have delivered, and I am proud of the academy players who made their step into the first team and performed so well. They are the future of the club.
‘I am disappointed that I did not have the time this season to take the club to the next level.
The 42-year-old also shared his words on Instagram and received a deluge of supportive responses
Lampard thanked owner Roman Abramovich, who admitted it was “hard” to keep up with him
The pair enjoyed years of trophy-laden glory together when Lampard was a Chelsea midfielder
‘I would like to thank Mr Abramovich, the board, the players, my coaching team and everyone at the club for their hard work and dedication, especially in these unprecedented and challenging times.
“I wish the team and the club every success for the future.”
Lampard was under pressure after a streak of five defeats in eight Premier League games, although his abrupt departure earlier in the day had still shocked many supporters.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich took the unprecedented step of explaining the relentless move as part of the club’s announcement, calling it a ‘very difficult decision’.
Lampard has now joined Jose Mourinho (center) to receive his marching orders
Some fans who celebrated Lampard’s arrival as a coach intend to continue to honor him