Manchester City 1 Chelsea 1: 'I didn't expect to score,' says Frank Lampard

Lampard enjoyed 13 glittering years with Chelsea

James Orr
Monday 22 September 2014 06:36 EDT
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Frank Lampard and the non-celebration
Frank Lampard and the non-celebration (GETTY IMAGES)

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Frank Lampard equalised for Manchester City in the 85th minute against his old team Chelsea in the 1-1 draw at the Etihad Stadium today, and the former badge-kissing Blues' midfielder did not celebrate his dramatic effort.

Lampard steered the ball past Thibaut Courtois from James Milner's cross, and because of his ties with the Blues, did not celebrate.

The visiting Blues' fans looked on in shock as Lampard acknowledged his goal with an almost resigned gesture.

"I had 13 amazing years with Chelsea" he said following the game.

"I'd be unprofessional if I didn't come on and do my job.. I'm a bit lost for words, I didn't expect to come on and score."

Andre Schurrle had earlier put Chelsea ahead in the 71st minute, finishing off an intricate passing move involving Diego Costa, Branislav Ivanovic and Eden Hazard.

Lampard's 13-year spell in west London came to an end this summer when the Blues decided not to renew his contract.

 

The 36-year-old eventually joined New York City before being loaned to Premier League rivals City.

But Lampard decided not to have a big farewell party during the final game of last season in case he eventually stayed at the club.

"I didn't want to do the big parade - 'Thanks a lot and goodbye everyone' - because that would have looked a bit foolish if it had gone the other way and I'd stayed," Lampard had told The Sun after completing the move during the summer.

Courtois cannot save Lampard's strike
Courtois cannot save Lampard's strike

"I ended up stuck in the middle. So I just did the usual lap and a wave because we knew Ash [Cole] was leaving, we had a bit of a moment with him."

During a glittering spell with the Blues Lampard won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, one Europa League and the Champions Cup.

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