Lampard excused from Derby training to allow him to secure fairy tale Chelsea manager job
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DERBY owner Mel Morris says it is "a matter of time" until Frank Lampard is named Chelsea manager.
The Rams today gave the Blues legend permission to miss training in order to secure his fairy tale return to Stamford Bridge.
Lampard was due to meet up with his squad this morning to begin pre-season preparation but will instead continue negotiations with Chelsea.
Morris, when asked by host Jim White if it was just a matter of time until a deal is done, said: "I'm assuming so.
"Obviously it’s a matter between Chelsea and Frank at this stage, but they’ve now got the opportunity to finalise matters.
“As we’ve said before, when Frank and I first met we discussed this very eventuality, the only difference is the timing of this.
“My belief at this point in time is that Frank and Chelsea need to have the time to finalise the transaction between them.
“You could say they’ve had plenty of time, but in fairness Frank was away on vacation – and a well-deserved one after a pretty tough season – and he didn’t come back until Friday, so I think that has been a big factor.”
Lamps excused
In a statement earlier today, Derby said: "Derby County Football Club has excused Frank Lampard from reporting back for pre-season training on Monday and Tuesday to allow his discussions regarding a potential move to Chelsea to be concluded as soon as possible.
"The first few days of pre-season training will be focused on fitness training and will continue as planned under the guidance of the fitness, medical, conditioning and sports science teams at the club’s Training Centre.
"On the assumption that Frank will reach an agreement with Chelsea to become their new manager, the club shall step up its efforts to find a replacement manager."
It is understood Chelsea hope to announce club legend Lampard, 41, as Maurizio Sarri's replacement before the players return for pre-season training on Friday.
The squad will fly out to Dublin for two matches and then Japan for another double header after returning to Cobham.
Lampard has one year left on his Derby deal but owner Mel Morris has reluctantly allowed him to negotiate with Chelsea over a return.
Assistant Jody Morris and coach Shay GIven are both expected to be part of the team the Blues want to bring in.
It is unclear whether they have also been excused from Derby training.
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The Rams need to be happy with the full package of compensation they receive and discussions are ongoing about which coaches will be joining Lampard's backroom staff.
Derby have lined up Holland legend Philip Cocu as Lampard's replacement.
Former West Brom boss Darren Moore is also in the frame for the job.