Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that Frank Lampard will be in the squad to face his old club Chelsea on Sunday and tried to defuse any potential issues by reminding supporters that it was not his choice to leave Stamford Bridge. Chelsea ended Lampard’s 13-year stay at the club this summer when he was released at the end of his contract, and the former England midfielder caused widespread surprise by signing for City having agreed to play for their affiliate club New York City FC in Major League Soccer next year. Pellegrini was quick to point out that the 36-year-old would still be at Stamford Bridge if he had the choice, and should not be criticised for extending his career elsewhere.
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Frank Lampard was released by Chelsea in the summer
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He moved to New York City FC in America, before being loaned to Man City
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Pellegrini was quick to admit that Lampard wanted to stay at Chelsea
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He will be in the squad to face old club Chelsea at the weekend
Frank Lampard sits on the bench during @placeholder training - where he's likely to be on Sunday