Derby County have unveiled Frank Lampard as their new manager. The former England international midfielder has signed on a three-year contract. This is his first job in management, following his retirement from professional football in 2016. His club career spanned 20 years, including stints at West Ham and Chelsea.
Frank Lampard: New Derby Boss
Derby have been searching for a new manager since Gary Rowett left the club for recently-relegated Stoke City. The Rams have seen some promise in recent seasons in the Championship, where they’ve seen three top-six finishes in five years. However, they have struggled to do anything of note in the playoffs. They lost to eventual play-off winners Fulham in the semi-final of the 2017-18 season.
Lampard, who won 106 caps for England, is seen as a risky appointment by many. The Chelsea legend has said that his former England teammate, Steven Gerrard, has had a big influence on his decision. The debate surrounding untested former players taking top managerial jobs has been in the limelight recently when Mikel Arteta was made favourite for the Arsenal job – albeit temporarily.
Budget Cuts for Derby
Mel Morris, Derby’s owner, has already mentioned that the club will be moving forward with a different financial strategy following the club’s failure to reach the Premier League. Recent yearly losses may be the reason behind Derby’s pursuit of a young manager. Lampard will be bringing in the highly-rated Jody Morris as his assistant.
However, the club still harbour ambitions to reach the Premier League. They hope Lampard can be a major part of their recruitment strategy, such is the man’s reputation among footballers young and old.
Big Ambitions
Speaking to dcfc.co.uk about his appointment, Lampard said: “I’ve always wanted to manage a club with a big tradition and history like Derby County, so this is a huge opportunity. I have spent considerable time discussing the role and the club’s objectives with the Chairman and board members.
“We want to build on the club’s top six finish in the Championship last season, while at the same time bringing through some of the excellent youth and Academy talent we have at Pride Park.”
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