Derby owner Mel Morris believes it is only a matter of time before Frank Lampard succeeds Maurizio Sarri as head coach at Chelsea. Rams boss Lampard has been excused from reporting back for pre-season by the Sky Bet Championship club in order to conclude discussions with the Blues’ board.
The 41-year-old, who has two years remaining on his County contract, scored a club record 211 goals and won 11 major trophies as a Chelsea player between 2001 and 2014. “I’m assuming so. Obviously it’s a matter between Chelsea and Frank at this stage, but they’ve now got the opportunity to finalise matters,” Morris told talkSPORT.
“When Frank and I first met, we discussed this very eventuality, the only difference is the timing of this. Our belief at this point in time is that Frank and Chelsea need to have the time now to finalise the transaction between them.” On Monday, Derby gave Lampard an initial two days of authorised leave to complete the move.
The former England midfielder has had permission to speak with the Europa League winners since last Tuesday. Morris said Lampard was away on holiday until Friday and believes that has been a “big factor” in delaying his potential appointment.
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