Frank Lampard’s special 12-word admission after Chelsea Caretaker Manager appointment

Frank Lampard has spoken for the first time since being appointed Chelsea Caretaker Manager until the end of the season.

The 44-year-old returned to Stamford Bridge was confirmed on Thursday afternoon after Chelsea decided to appoint their former player and manager on a temporary basis for the final two months of the 2023/23 campaign.

Chelsea sacked Graham Potter on Sunday following a run of just 11 wins from his 31 games in charge, and now they have turned to Lampard to oversee the squad on a caretaker basis.

Lampard, who has managed 84 games for Chelsea, was in attendance at Stamford Bridge, sat in Behdad Eghbali’s private box, on Tuesday night for Chelsea‘s goalless draw against Liverpool in the Premier League.

The initial plan was to find a permanent successor for Potter, however with Chelsea not wanting to rush appointment amid contact and talks with Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique, Lampard has been called upon for the final nine Premier League games and their Champions League run. 

Lampard spoke for the first time following his return to west London, saying: “It was a pretty easy decision for me. This is my club.

“I’m delighted to get the opportunity, thankful. I’m confident in myself, a good understanding of the squad, worked with a lot of them before. I will do my utmost in this period to give them what they want.”

He added: “It’s a big challenge, but aren’t they all? Everything is a challenge. I’m ready to put my work into this challenge, take it day by day. I’ve got a clear idea, to try and impact them (the players).”

Lampard’s first two games will be on the road and then he will return to the Stamford Bridge dugout next Saturday when they host Brighton & Hove Albion.

“Really exciting,” responded the new interim boss on his west London return. “It was an amazing buzz to be back (on Tuesday). I’m proud to manage this club.”

On his message to the fans, he said: “I’m very thankful for the ones that are delighted. For the ones not, I will do my utmost to get a team they are proud of.

“I’ve played here for 13 years, coached here, some incredible moments. They’ve been a huge support.”