FRANK LAMPARD has lifted the lid on why he left Chelsea and joined rivals Manchester City.
Lampard was released by the Blues at the end of last season, following 13 successful seasons at Stamford Bridge.
The 36-year-old subsequently signed a two-year deal with MLS outfit New York City, but shocked Chelsea fans by coming back to the Premier League with City on loan.
And after scoring three goals in two games for Manuel Pellegrini’s men, there has been speculation that Lampard could stay at the Etihad past January.
Chelsea supporters showed their appreciation for the midfielder during the recent 1-1 draw between the two teams and the former England star has explained why he made the move.
“It’s a funny one for me because my intentions were to have a longer holiday and then train maybe on my own with a fitness coach,” said Lampard.
“I was in pure holiday mode when I got the call to come back here. I’ve had a really good pre-season now. Considering I wasn’t involved in the first few games, that’s been extra training time for me.
“I feel good and I’m just actually really enjoying training and playing. The lads are great, the people behind the scenes have welcomed me, the staff, the manager, Brian Kidd. It’s been an easy transition.”
Lampard admits he is enjoying pushing himself out of his comfort zone at City.
“It’s very different,” he added. “I was at Chelsea such a long time that you just go on auto-pilot in the end. You drive in every day, you know everybody behind the scenes.
“It was a tester for me to be honest. I didn’t have to make this decision. But it was a very good opportunity for me to play at this level and train at this level, and it’s a personal test to come up to Manchester.
“I was in very much of a comfort zone at Chelsea. It’s good to test yourself in life.
“All I can say is I am enjoying it. I’ve always been proud of my fitness and trying to keep as fresh as I can. At the end of the day, I’m very fortunate.
“Not many players get the opportunity at 36 to come and play amongst this amount of quality. When you look around the dressing room, there’s so much of it, and it’s an honour to come in and be able to play amongst that.”
Source: Express