Chelsea

Jose Mourinho: 'I don't know if Frank Lampard can return to Chelsea'

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 22 February 2015

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is doubtful over whether former midfielder Frank Lampard can ever return to Stamford Bridge after moving to Manchester City.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has expressed doubts over whether former midfielder Frank Lampard can ever return to Stamford Bridge.

The 36-year-old left the Blues at the end of the 2013-14 season after 13 years of service, with many thinking that he would be linking up with MLS club New York City FC.

However, Lampard went on to secure a contract with Manchester City - one of Chelsea's biggest rivals for the Premier League title - until the end of the season.

Mourinho is quoted by BBC Sport as saying: "We opened the door for [Lampard] to choose his future with us and we thought he was leaving to the States.

"We thought a couple of years later he would come back to do what he wants. First-team coach, assistant manager, ambassador. For Frank we would find a new department for him to run, to do what he wants.

"We were surprised by his decision to go to Man City but he was a free agent, he can do what he wants with his career and the last thing I would do is criticise his career. I don't know [if that door is now closed]. I don't know."

Chelsea are five points ahead of second-placed Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.