English football legend, Frank Lampard has announced his retirement from
football at the ripe age of 38, after playing professional football for
the last 21 years. Lampard first started his career at West Ham, before
enjoying the best spell of his career at Chelsea, before joining New
York City Football Club and Man City on loan.
Lampard, who scored over 300 goals in his career, announced his retirement on Instagram saying:
'After 21 incredible years, I have decided that now is the right time to
finish my career as a professional footballer. Whilst I have received a
number of exciting offers to continue playing at home and abroad, at 38
I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life. I’m
immensely proud of the trophies I’ve won, of representing my country
over 100 times and of scoring more than 300 career goals.'
'I have many people to thank. I thank my parents for instilling in me
the values of hard work, dedication and professionalism, values which I
have carried with me in everything that I do. I am forever grateful for
the support of my family, my wife Christine and my two daughters Luna
and Isla. What you have given me off the pitch has always been my
strength on it. I love you all very much. Also, my friends and my own
team that have always been there for me. I would like to thank the
amazing team-mates, coaches, managers and backroom staff that I was
privileged to work with. I’d also like to pay tribute to the clubs that I
have represented.
' Firstly, West Ham United who gave me my debut in 1996. Thanks to the
people there that believed in me at that young age. More recently
Manchester City and NYCFC. I greatly enjoyed my last playing years at
these two clubs and really appreciate the support I received from City
Football Group and both clubs’ fans.'
'Of course, the largest part of my heart belongs to Chelsea, a club
which has given me so many great memories. I will never forget the
opportunity they gave me and the success that we managed to achieve
together. It is impossible to give thanks individually to all the people
that helped and supported me in my 13 years playing there. All I can
say is from the day I signed until now and going forward, I’m eternally
grateful for everything and to everyone. Chelsea fans gave myself and my
teammates such incredible support. Their passion and hunger drove me on
personally to give my best year after year. I couldn’t have done it
without them.
'Looking forward, I’m grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study
for my coaching qualifications and I look forward to pursuing the
off-field opportunities that this decision opens.'
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