Lampard admits it will be ‘surreal’ leading out Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for first time as manager | OneFootball

Frank Lampard has admitted that it will be ‘surreal’ for him to step out at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea manager.

The 41-year-old has already cemented his place as a Chelsea legend, scoring a club record 211 goals in 648 appearances during his 13 year stint at the club between 2001 and 2014.

He returned to the club this summer, taking over from Maurizio Sarri as manager, with his first game back at the Bridge coming in this Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Leicester.

Lampard did of course take his Derby County side to Stamford Bridge last season, but ahead of leading Chelsea out for their first home game of the season, the former midfielder admitted at it will be ‘surreal’ to step out as Blues’ boss.

“I’m trying not to get caught up in the emotion of it all,” said Lampard in his pre-match press conference.

“I’ll be proud and it will be a little bit surreal but I want the atmosphere to be pumped for the players, not for me.

“The fans gave me a fantastic reception when I was at City, then at the Bridge and when I came back with Derby. I am excited but I don’t want that to be the overriding thing in terms of preparing for the game.”

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