Chelsea

Frank Lampard admits relationship struggles with Rafael Benitez

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter | 22 May 2013

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard admits that he found it difficult to build a relationship with Rafael Benitez during his tenure at Chelsea.

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has admitted that he found it difficult to build a relationship with interim manager Rafael Benitez.

The Spaniard is due to leave the club following their post-season tour of the United States, despite winning the Europa League with the Blues.

Jose Mourinho has been touted to return to Stamford Bridge to replace Benitez when he leaves Real Madrid in June.

Lampard told The Sun: "There are certain managers you build relationships with and feel closer to. He's not that kind of bloke. Other managers draw a bit of a line and keep it that way. Rafa's more like that.

"He was not really the sort of manager you could sit and talk with. We had a couple of conversations about my future in which he was quite honest saying that he wasn't really involved.

"So that's where that conversation ends. He's not a manager who goes round putting his arm around every player — and I'm not saying that's wrong."

Chelsea will play Manchester City in two friendly games on their post-season tour of the US.