Frank Lampard had a solid season with New York City FC, but he will not be returning to the club in 2017.
NYCFC announced on Monday morning that Lampard will be leaving the club once his contract expires at the end of the year. The 38-year-old midfielder is departing after two seasons.
“As my time at NYCFC comes to an end, I would like to thank so many people for the kindness and support that they have shown me over the last two years," Lampard said in a club statement. “My teammates have been a pleasure to play alongside. The amazing fans have given me incredible support and backing. I have very much enjoyed my time, and I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to play for such a great club and in such an incredible city.”
During his time at the club, Lampard scored a total of 15 goals and delivered four assists. The Designated Player's sophomore campaign in MLS was the better of his two seasons, as he finished with 12 goals and three assists in 19 appearances while helping NYCFC earn their first postseason berth.
On top of helping the club reach the playoffs, Lampard notably scored NYCFC's first hat-trick against the Colorado Rapids back on July 30.
“Everybody talks about Frank’s goal-scoring record from midfield but I can tell you after a year of working with him, he brings so much more to a team than just goals,” NYCFC head coach Patrick Vieira said in the club statement. “What Frank has brought to the locker room is something just as important – his experience, his elite mentality and his mentorship for the younger members of our squad have helped us greatly this year.”
“It is clear that Frank has embraced playing in this league and for this club. I am grateful for his service in my first year here and I wish him the very best in whatever he chooses to do next.”
The Englishman was NYCFC's second major announced signing. He arrived to the club in summer 2015, but was hindered by injury before bouncing back with a solid campaign this year.
“On and off the pitch he has been a fantastic ambassador," said NYCFC sporting director Claudio Reyna. "I would tell any young player to watch Frank, to see how he’s conducted himself over the last two years and to use that as inspiration as to how an elite, professional footballer should approach the game” said Reyna. “From the second he walked through the door, he’s set the example.”
“Frank will always be part of the history of this club and we thank him for playing an important role in so many special moments in our young history.”
