Chelsea announce Lampard’s return as Sarri’s replacement

Chelsea have confirmed they have appointed Derby head coach Frank Lampard as Maurizio Sarri’s replacement.

The west London outfit announced Sarri’s departure to Juventus last month and have now turned to club legend Lampard to replace the Italian.

Lampard is only one year into his managerial career but has landed his dream job after impressing at Derby.

The 40-year-old, who has signed a three-year deal with Chelsea, led Derby to the Championship play-off final where they lost the Wembley show-piece to Aston Villa.

Chelsea will now hope Lampard can return the feel good factor to Stamford Bridge after things soured under Sarri.

“I am immensely proud to be returning to Chelsea as head coach,” he told the club’s official website.

“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 is a fan favourite at Chelsea after spending 13 years at the club as a player, though he risked his relationship with the supporters after joining Manchester City for a season.

Chelsea have already lost Eden Hazard this summer and to make things more difficult for Lampard the club may not be able to sign anyone for the next two transfer windows.

Chelsea have taken their appeal of a FIFA-imposed transfer ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) but there is a chance they may have to start their ban this summer.

Lampard finished his one season at Derby with a win ratio of 45.6%.