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Chelsea

 

By Hussein Jiva

August 6th, 2014

They say years of hard work, dedication and respect can all come undone within a matter of moments.

And for Chelsea legend and former veteran, Frank Lampard – if reports are to be believed – that moment is soon approaching, as the former foe is set to join the champions on loan.

England international, Lampard, is expected to put pen to paper on a sensational loan move to English champions, Manchester City, in a six-month deal from New York City FC, braving the wrath that will be targeted at him by former faithful.

This is not a new phenomenon in the soccer world; Cristiano Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid while Robin Van Persie crossed the divide to join the Red Devils from the Gunners.

For Chelsea fans contemplating to vent their anger, frustrations and question the veteran’s loyalty to the club by making such an act of expression is ludicrous.

If anything, the player who moved from West Ham United in 2001 to join the Blues and consequently turn out 648 times for the club, should remain a revered ex-player, joining the likes of Gianfranco Zola, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Claude Makelele.

While in the Blues of Chelsea, the midfielder plundered past oppositions 211 goals in 13 years, averaging 16 goals per season. No one could doubt the dedication he showed on the field, covering every blade of grass when fit and putting in a respectable shift when not at his best.

Furthermore, while Lampard was willing to extend his contract for one year, it was Jose Mourinho who dampened that hope, opting to let him go.

However, he did offer a golden deal to the Chelsea great; speaking after the departure of the midfielder, Mou said: “He can be a coach, he can start at the academy and he can start being my assistant at the same time because he is doing his coaching badges, or he can start in a different role.”

He added: “He can decide in this moment whether he wants to start immediately in a coaching role, or if he wants to be an ambassador, representing the club in important places of our life – he can do what he wants.”

Thus, while emotions are understandably heightened, what fans should note is that the 36-year-old’s new Major League Soccer (MLS) club is backed by none other than Manchester City.

Thus, the move would provide a competitive training platform for the England international – which has scored 29 goals in 106 appearances for his country – to keep his fitness levels up before joining his new club.

Furthermore, those fans exhibiting a deep hatred for former diligent servant should be given a dressing down and be schooled on hypocrisy.

The moves to land players Yossi Benayoun, Fernando Torres and the latest addition to what will surely not the last such move, Cesc Fabregas, exhibit the very ethos fans are demonstrating against.

Loyalty is exhibited greatly when playing for the club, but exudes on a grandiose manner when outside of it.

Thierry Henry will forever remain an Arsenal great for his devotion and respect to the club after his departure.

David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo too have a soft spot for former club, Manchester United. If Chelsea fans want Lampard to cherish his time with the Blues, they dare not target hatred to the selfless warrior; lest he does a ‘Carlos Teves.’

 

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