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First pictures as Chelsea manager Frank Lampard poses with shirt – Fans will love one snap
FRANK LAMPARD has been announced as the new manager of Chelsea, with the club legend posing for photos alongside Director Marina Granovskaia.
Frank Lampard: Becoming Chelsea manager is 'surreal'
Chelsea have finally unveiled Lampard as their new manager, five years after the former midfielder left Stamford Bridge as a player.
The 41-year-old has signed a three-year contract after protracted talks, with Lampard wanting assurances about being given time and support to build a fresh team.
The ex-Blues star will get £4million-a-year plus large bonuses based on trophy wins and Chelsea’s Premier League finishing position.
The west London club had initially planned to announce the appointment on Wednesday but technical problems with several social media platforms led to a delay.
Lampard was officially unveiled at 9am this morning, with the new boss posing for photographs alongside club director Granovskaia.
And with Chelsea having gone through 13 managers since Roman Abramovich took over in 2003, fans will be delighted to see their newest gaffer looking so happy with the club hierarchy.
Lampard and Granovskaia were all smiles during the presentation and both had big grins on their faces as they held up the 2019/20 home shirt.
Supporters will hope the duo can foster a healthy working relationship that will ensure Lampard is given the time he needs to develop a new crop of players at Chelsea.
The appointment has boosted the chances of starlets such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Callum Hudson-Odoi making a lasting impression at The Bridge while loan players such as Mason Mount will now back themselves to break into the first team.
However, such progression relies on Lampard being given the time to make significant adjustments at a club which has generally had an older squad during recent seasons.
The former Derby coach has already fostered a reputation for giving youth a chance during his short tenure at Pride Park, and fans will hope Lampard’s arrival is an indication that Chelsea are willing to follow the same path.
On joining Lampard admitted his immense pride at being given the opportunity to manage his beloved Chelsea, where he spent 13 years as a player.
Chelsea: Lampard 'cannot wait' for Stamford Bridge return
He said: “I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach.
“Everyone knows my love for this club and the history we have shared, however, my sole focus is on the job in hand and preparing for the season ahead.
“I am here to work hard, bring further success to the club and I cannot wait to get started.”
Lampard’s work begins with a pre-season tour visiting Ireland, Japan, Austria and Germany before a tricky clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford on the opening weekend of the Premier League campaign.