By ROB BEASLEY
FRANK LAMPARD has given a graphic insight into the interim rule of Rafa Benitez at Chelsea.
The Blues’ record scorer has spoken candidly about his relationship with the departing Stamford Bridge boss.
Lampard admits he endured a DIFFICULT six months working alongside the former Liverpool manager.
In an exclusive SunSport interview, Lampard revealed: “There are certain managers you build relationships with and feel closer to. He’s not that kind of bloke.
“Other managers draw a bit of a line and keep it that way. Rafa’s more like that.
“He was not really the sort of manager you could sit and talk with.
“We had a couple of conversations about my future in which he was quite honest saying that he wasn’t really involved.
“So that’s where that conversation ends.
“He’s not a manager who goes round putting his arm around every player — and I’m not saying that’s wrong.
“There are a lot of managers like that, Fabio Capello was like that with England.”
Lampard admitted Benitez did work hard to try to rescue Chelsea’s season after he was appointed interim boss last November.
The England star said: “He’s a professional bloke. He prepared very well for games.
“And it was a difficult situation for him as well. As interim manager it was always going to be quite difficult because we all knew it was only to the end of the season.
“So there was no planning, no long-term relationships were going to be built. So, in that respect, he did a good job because we got the end result — success.”
Benitez guided Chelsea to the Europa League crown and a top three finish, ensuring Champions League action next term.
But he will leave Blues after this week’s post-season American tour.
And there’s no doubting what Lampard wants now — the return of the Special One.
He declared: “Jose Mourinho’s the best manager I’ve worked with, I hope he comes.”
