Frank Lampard to leave New York City FC

Former England and Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard will leave New York City FC next month, the club have confirmed.

Lampard, who signed for New York City FC in 2014, scored 15 goals in 31 appearances for the team.

The 38-year-old told the club’s official website: “As my time at NYCFC comes to an end, I would like to thank so many people for the kindness and support that they have shown me over the last two years.

“My team-mates have been a pleasure to play alongside. The amazing fans have given me incredible support and backing.

“I have very much enjoyed my time, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to play for such a great club and in such an incredible city.”

The highlight of Lampard’s spell in the MLS came against the Colorado Rapids in July of this year when he scored the first ever hat-trick in NYCFC’s history to help the club make the play-offs for the first time.

New York’s season ended with a 7-0 aggregate defeat by Toronto and Lampard revealed he will make a decision on his future imminently.

Posting a thank you to New York’s fans on Instagram, Lampard said: “I leave with many great memories as I embark on the next stage of my career and I’ll be making an announcement very soon.”

NYCFC coach Patrick Vieria.
NYCFC  head coach Patrick Vieira.

New York head coach Patrick Vieira, who joined the club from Manchester City, and sporting director Claudio Reyna, another ex-City player, paid tribute to Lampard.

Vieira said: “Everybody talks about Frank’s goal-scoring record from midfield, but I can tell you after a year of working with him, he brings so much more to a team than just goals.

“It is clear that Frank has embraced playing in this league and for this club. I am grateful for his service in my first year here and I wish him the very best in whatever he chooses to do next.”

Reyna said: “On and off the pitch he has been a fantastic ambassador. Frank will always be part of the history of this club and we thank him for playing an important role in so many special moments in our young history.”

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