London - Frank Lampard on Friday moved to
clear up "lies and nonsense" over his move to
New York City FC, confirming he will move to the
States after completing his loan deal with
Manchester City.
Lampard issued a statement which said he does
have an agreement in place with Major League
Soccer side New York and will move there at
season's end.
"I want to make it completely clear about my
situation as I have read a lot of lies and
nonsense over the last few days," the statement
said.
"When released from Chelsea last year at the
end of my contract I signed a commitment to
play for NYCFC for two years starting January 1,
2015. I was then offered the chance to train and
be part of the Man City squad in the interim to
keep myself in the best shape going into New
York.
"This period has since been extended by Man
City and I will now start playing for NYCFC at the
end of this current Premier League season.
"There has always been a constant dialogue
between all parties in this time to find the best
solution for everyone. I can say that I am very
excited about arriving in New York and giving
everything to the team to make us a success in
the MLS as soon as possible.
"Thanks everyone for your ongoing support and
I wish everyone a healthy and happy 2015!"
Lampard's assertion that his New York City
contract was originally due to start on January 1
may add further confusion as, when the MLS
franchise originally announced his signing in July
2014, they said on their website: "New York City
FC signs Frank Lampard to a Designated Player
contract ... a two-year contract which starts
August 1 (2014)."
Manchester City and New York City, both part of
the City Football Group, have been criticised on
both sides of the Atlantic for their handling of
the situation.
Lampard's move to the Etihad Stadium was
initially thought to be a loan, and it only
emerged that he was fully registered with the
club after his deal was extended on December
31.
With Yaya Toure heading to the African Nations
Cup, City are keen to keep Lampard after his
return of seven goals, largely as a substitute.
Lampard has been the face of New York City's
marketing campaign ahead of their inaugural
season and many fans demanded a refund on
their season tickets after it was confirmed he
would remain in Manchester until the summer.
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