Premier League: Frank Lampard has mixed emotions after scoring against Chelsea
Tuesday 23 September 2014 16:21, UK
Frank Lampard was left almost speechless after scoring the equaliser for his new club Manchester City in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the Etihad.
Chelsea legend Lampard, who spent 13 years at Stamford Bridge, was serenaded by the visiting fans when he came off the bench but he struck five minutes from time after being picked out by James Milner to cancel out Andre Schurrle's 71st-minute opener.
The 36-year-old made a point of not celebrating the goal, and he admitted to mixed emotions.
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Lampard told Sky Sports 1: "It's a really difficult one. I'd be unprofessional if I didn't come on and do my job, so I was trying to get into the box and it was a great ball back from Milly.
"It's a tough one for me. I had 13 amazing years with the Chelsea fans, so I am mixed with it. I am obviously pleased the team I play for got a draw.
"I am a little lost for words. I didn't expect to come on and score like that.
“I came on and the Chelsea fans were singing, and that's emotional. Then I am playing for this club, who have taken me in brilliantly as well, so I am really stuck in the middle here."
City boss Manuel Pellegrini says he did not think twice about using Lampard.
He said: "I asked him if he wanted to be involved, and of course he wanted to be involved. That shows how great a professional Lampard is.
"I am sure he was not happy to score against such an important team in his career, but he's a good professional, he is a very good player."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, for whom Lampard was such a key figure during his first spell at Stamford Bridge was philosophical about the goal.
Mourinho said: "He is a Man City player. I don't believe in these histories of passion and heart, I don't believe in these. Maybe I am too pragmatic in football.
"When he decided to come to Man City, a direct competitor of Chelsea, love stories are over. He did his job as the super professional he is, and he did well."
