Frank Lampard looks to be on the verge of becoming Chelsea manager after being excused from Derby’s pre-season training. Ex-Chelsea midfielder Lampard was granted permission by the Rams to speak to the Premier League outfit last week with a view to succeeding Maurizio Sarri at Stamford Bridge.
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Derby County, who lost in the Championship play-off final to Aston Villa last season, have now told the 41-year-old manager he does not need to report back for pre-season training at Pride Park Stadium.
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“Derby County Football Club has excused Frank Lampard from reporting back for pre-season training on Monday and Tuesday to allow his discussions regarding a potential move to Chelsea to be concluded as soon as possible,” read a statement on the club’s official website.
“The first few days of pre-season training will be focused on fitness training and will continue as planned under the guidance of the fitness, medical, conditioning and sports science teams at the club’s training centre. “On the assumption that Frank will reach an agreement with Chelsea to become their new manager, the club shall step up its efforts to find a replacement manager.”
