Frank Lampard says he's disappointed not to have been given more time as Chelsea manager.
The 42-year old has released a statement following his sacking after 18-months in charge of the West London club.
Lampard's final game in charge was a 3-1 win at home to Luton Town that saw the Blues advance to round 5 of the FA Cup.
But it's the run of five defeats in eight Premier League games that ultimately cost Lampard his job.
He says it was a "huge privilege and an honour" to manage a club where he is the all-time record goalscorer.
Lampard is likely to be replaced by former Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint Germain manager, Thomas Tuchel.
Former and current RB Leipzig head coaches Ralf Rangnick and Julian Nagelsmann were also in the running to replace the former West Ham and Manchester City midfielder.
Phonecalls had begun before Lampard's sacking, with his relationship with key director Marina Granovskaia having broken down beyond repair.
It's also believed certain players were unhappy with his management style.
Lampard said, "I am disappointed not to have had the time this season to take the club forward and bring it to the next level."
He thanked club owner Roman Abramovich by name, and others at the club in a more broad sense.
Frank Lampard statement:
It has been a huge privilege and an honour to manage Chelsea. a club that has been a big part of my life for so long.
Firstly, I would like to thank the fans for the incredible support that I have received over the last 18 months. I hope they know what that means to me.
When I took on this role I understood the challenges that lay ahead in a difficult time for the football club.
I am proud of the achievements that we made, and I am proud of the academy players that have made their step into the first team and performed so well. They are the future of the club.
I am disappointed not to have had the time this season to take the club forward and bring it to the next level.
I want to thank Mr Abramovich, the board, players, my coaching team and everyone at the club for their hard work and dedication. especially M these unprecedented and challenging times.
I wish the team and the club every success for the future.
Frank Lampard sacked, Ireland’s Six Nations squad and standardized fitness test
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
