Football League World
·28 November 2024
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·28 November 2024
Frank Lampard has spoke to the in-house media team at Coventry City following the confirmation of his arrival.
Frank Lampard has relayed his delight in being handed the Coventry City job in his first interview with the Sky Blues' media team.
Almost three weeks on from the controversial sacking of Mark Robins, City unveiled the former Chelsea manager as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
Having been well in the pipework for over seven days, it will come as no surprise to Coventry fans, who will be eager to see what Lampard can bring to their side.
Currently, the Sky Blues are languishing in 17th place, with only four wins from their opening 17 games. Just two points above the relegation zone, Lampard’s immediate priority will be steering the team to safety and following that he can begin to focus on starting his new project.
The ex-England international has a mixed managerial record, with a strong spell at Derby County being overshadowed by criticism during his time at Chelse and Everton.
However, Lampard is clearly excited about the opportunity to lead one of the best-run clubs in the second tier and believes he can make a large difference in their immediate future.
Speaking in his first press conference with the Sky Blues' media team, Lampard said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be here, a club that I’ve got huge respect for in terms of its history and tradition.
"I grew up in eras where Coventry have been very successful. To be given the role of head coach is a huge deal for me, to come in and try and help with the good work and foundations I think have already been laid at the club.
"It’s an ambitious club that wants to move forward and I want to help as much as I can."
Speaking about what brand of football Coventry fans can expect to see, Lampard added: "In time I want to bring an exciting attacking team for them to see. A possession-based team that wants to attack and attack quickly at times. I want to excite the fans. That is certainly what I want to work towards.
"There are some things that we will want to move forward with and (some) that will maybe change, and understanding that in that process we will have to get a lot of work in to get the results we want. But, I'm ready to put that work in to pass the message on to the players and, hopefully, that will show through onto the pitch."
Finally, Lampard expressed his gratitude to Doug King for offering him the opportunity and shared his excitement about connecting with the fans in the coming weeks as he begins this new chapter.
Coventry's new era will begin this Saturday, with Lampard's opening fixture against Cardiff City, a side below the Sky Blues by just one point. A win would be the optimum start and would help begin to get the whole club looking up rather than down.
Ultimately, this season will likely be a case of securing a mid-table position unless the former Derby manager can get his side firing on all cylinders.
If he can, then it will prove a worthy appointment and King will be glad he took a chance on the 46-year-old.