Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has confirmed that club legend Frank Lampard will not be returning to Stamford Bridge as coach this season.
Lampard, who is Chelsea's highest ever scorer, has returned to England following a spell in the MLS with New York City FC. It was thought that he might take up a coaching role with the Blues, but Conte has revealed that it wont be happening this season.
Speaking in a news conference at the club's Cobham training facility, the Blues' manager said that that he did hold talks with the former England international, but it wasn't about a coaching role.
Yesterday, yes. It was very good, very nice to see him," Conte said. "He's a legend for this club and it's fantastic when he comes to see the training sessions, to talk with us and stay with former team-mates. I found him in good form.
Conte on Lampard's visit to training yesterday: 'It was very nice to see him, he's a legend, and I found him on good form.' #CFC
Conte says Lampard wants to continue to play football and it is best to ask him about his future. #CFC
We didn't talk about this [coaching]. I think Frank wants to continue to play football, and I repeat: I saw him in good form, in good shape, to continue to play football. Then, for his future, I think it's better to ask him.�
Blues fans will be disappointed, but you just never know; this does leave the door open for him to return as a player.
And in any case, with Steve Holland set to leave to help Gareth Southgate with England's affairs, a spot is bound to open up in the back room next season.