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38-year old Frank Lampard is to leave Major League Soccer side New York City FC following the conclusion of his contract at the end of 2016.
Signed by New York City FC in 2014, Frank made 31 appearances for the club, scoring 15 goals. He assured his place in club history with the team’s first-ever hattrick against the Colorado Rapids on July 30, 2016 which helped NYCFC towards the MLS Playoffs for the very first time.
Lampard said, “As my time at NYCFC comes to an end, I would like to thank so many people for the kindness and support that they have shown me over the last two years.”
“My teammates have been a pleasure to play alongside. The amazing fans have given me incredible support and backing.”
“I have very much enjoyed my time, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to play for such a great club and in such an incredible city.”
For Lampard’s Head Coach, Patrick Vieira, Frank’s influence at NYCFC transcended even his stellar efforts on the field of play. Vieira said, “Everybody talks about Frank’s goal-scoring record from midfield but I can tell you after a year of working with him, he brings so much more to a team than just goals.”
“What Frank has brought to the locker room is something just as important – his experience, his elite mentality and his mentorship for the younger members of our squad have helped us greatly this year.”
“It is clear that Frank has embraced playing in this league and for this club. I am grateful for his service in my first year here and I wish him the very best in whatever he chooses to do next.”
Sporting Director Claudio Reyna echoed Vieira’s sentiments and expressed his gratitude to Lampard. “On and off the pitch he has been a fantastic ambassador,” said Reyna.
“I would tell any young player to watch Frank, to see how he’s conducted himself over the last two years and to use that as inspiration as to how an elite, professional footballer should approach the game. From the second he walked through the door, he’s set the example.”
“Frank will always be part of the history of this club and we thank him for playing an important role in so many special moments in our young history,” Reyna added.
