Derby County confirm Chelsea legend Frank Lampard as new manager

Derby County have appointed Frank Lampard as their new manager on a three-year deal.

The Rams had been on the lookout for a new head coach following the departure of Gary Rowett to Stoke City, and Lampard had been locked in talks with the Championship club over the last few days.

Chelsea’s record goalscorer has now been officially confirmed as Derby’s new boss, and the 39-year-old has described his first managerial role as “a huge opportunity”.

“I’ve always wanted to manage a club with a big tradition and history like Derby County, so this is a huge opportunity. I have spent considerable time discussing the role and the club’s objectives with the chairman and board members,” Lampard told the club’s official website.

“We want to build on the club’s top six finish in the Championship last season, while at the same time bringing through some of the excellent youth and Academy talent we have at Pride Park.

“This is my first job as a manager, but I’ve worked closely with some of the best coaches in the game and I’m confident in my own abilities and those of the team around me, including the board. I know it won’t be easy – managing a football team never is – but I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

Meanwhile, Derby chief executive chairman Mel Morris added: “I’m delighted to have someone of Frank’s calibre as our new manager. I’ve always been an admirer of Frank both as a player and a person, especially in the way he conducts himself both on and off the pitch.

“That impression was only re-enforced when we interviewed him for this role, his passion and humility shone through in equal measure. The board were unanimous that he was the stand-out applicant with many highly desirable and unique capabilities.

“Few players have achieved what Frank has in his career to date. He’s a winner, a leader who knows what it takes to succeed and who has the character and charisma to be a fantastic manager for us.”

Lampard ended his playing career in 2016 following a stint at New York City FC.