Chelsea great Frank Lampard announces retirement
Former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard announced his retirement. The 38-year-old, through an Instagram post said, "After 21 incredible years, I have decided that now is the right time to finish my career as a professional footballer." Lampard reserved special thanks for Chelsea and said "the largest part of my heart belongs to Chelsea, a club which gave me many great memories."
Clubs Lampard played for
Frank Lampard began his professional career with West Ham United in 1996 and went on to join Chelsea in 2001. At Stamford Bridge, Lampard was pivotal to the club's most successful spell, winning all major trophies with them. After a 13-year stint with Chelsea, he spent an year at Manchester City, and played for New York City in Major Soccer League (2015-16).
Top moments : first premier league title, champions league victory
Lampard's best career moments came while he was with Chelsea. One of the finest has to be the first Premier League victory in 2005. He played a big part in the Mourinho's side that delivered Chelsea, a first top-flight championship in half a century. Super Frank, as he is popularly known, was part of the club's memorable Champions league victory at Munich in 2012.
Career in numbers
Frank Lampard won 11 trophies with Chelsea - Champions League, three Premier League titles, Europa League, four FA Cups and two League Cups. He is an all-time top scorer for the Blues with 211 goals from 649 appearances. His 177 premier league goal record is the fourth highest behind Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, and Andy Cole. Lampard won 106 England caps featuring 29 goals.
Most goals from outside the box
"Lampard scored more goals from outside the box than any other premier league player (41)."
What next for Lampard?
In his announcement, Lampard stated that "he was grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study for coaching badges" and his step forward looks certain to be in this area. He could also consider other opportunities like working in the media as a pundit.
