Frank Lampard signs Chelsea extension

Frank Lampard has signed a one-year extension to his Chelsea deal, the London club has confirmed.

Speculation had linked Lampard with a move away from the club with a deal looking increasingly unlikely, but recent reports suggesting he had agreed terms have been proven correct.

"I'm absolutely delighted," Lampard told the club's official website. "Everybody knows I always maintained the dream was to stay at Chelsea. We've been talking for ages and even though it went on for quite a period it was always amicable.

"I want to thank Mr [Roman] Abramovich for everything he's done in making the dream a reality. I love this club, the staff, the players and especially the supporters, who have treated me fantastically since the day I arrived.

"The thought of helping the club to more success in the forthcoming years is all I ever wanted. I couldn't be happier."

Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay was also delighted with the deal and stated that he remains an "important" player for the club.

"Frank has been an important player for Chelsea Football Club for a long time and has played a significant part in the club's success," he said.

"We have been talking to him since the end of last year and our discussions have been entirely positive throughout. We are delighted we are now announcing an extension to his contract which will keep him at the club until 2014."

Lampard recently became the club's all-time leading goalscorer.