Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has called time on his 22-year professional playing career after announcing his retirement with immediate effect.
The 38-year-old has been a free agent since leaving MLS franchise New York City FC in December but was open to offers this month to continue his career.
However, the former England international did not receive any offers that interested him after revealing he wasn’t interested in joining a side fighting relegation at this stage of his career and has now officially hung up his boots.
“Whilst I have received a number of exciting offers to continue playing, at 38 I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life,” BBC Sport quote Lampard as saying.
“I’m grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study for my coaching qualifications and I look forward to pursuing the off-field opportunities that this decision opens.”
Lampard will best be remembered for his performances for Chelsea in their golden period of Premier League dominance where he established himself as one of the best ever midfielders in the Premier League era.
From midfield, Lampard weighed in with a staggering 177 Premier League goals, which ranks him fourth on the all-time list. He won everything club football had to offer and finished his 15-year international career with 106 caps for England and 29 goals.
For more stats on Frank Lampard, click here to visit his WhoScored player page
