Frank Lampard has sought to draw a line under the
controversy regarding his extended stay at Manchester
City and insisted he will join New York City FC in the summer.
There has been confusion over the precise nature of Lampard's contract
status in relation to both clubs since it
was announced on New Year's Eve that he would remain with the Premier League
champions until the end of the season. That announcement has delayed his
debut with sister club New York until midway through their first MLS campaign,
to the anger of many fans in the United States.
On Thursday, the Premier League announced that, after
reviewing Lampard's status, it was satisfied his contract was solely
owned by Manchester City with no agreement in place between the two clubs -
which sparked fresh speculation he might never play in MLS.
But Lampard issued a statement via his representatives on Friday which
said he does have an agreement in place with New York and will move there in
the summer.
"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,
released via Steve Kutner Management, 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!"
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