Chelsea news: Frank Lampard responds to claims that James Corden influenced return | Football | Sport

Lampard’s appointment came as a surprise to many, given that he was sacked by the Blues in 2021 and went on to endure a tricky spell in charge of Everton. The 44-year-old has been placed in charge until the end of the season following the dismissal of Graham Potter.

Reports indicated that Corden was a surprise influence in Boehly’s decision to bring Lampard back to Stamford Bridge. Corden and Boehly have struck up a friendship in recent years and the TV show host was supposedly consulted.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Chelsea’s clash at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, Lampard surprisingly refused to rule out the claims.

“I saw the headline of James Corden but I am not aware if it is true or not,” he explained. “But it is obviously a great headline to put together. I think you have to respect they would make a decision based on more than one person.”

As Lampard looked ahead to a tricky game against the Champions League holders, he acknowledged that Chelsea will go into the contest as underdogs. “There will be pressure on both teams due to the size of both clubs,” he continued.

Lampard’s second coming at Chelsea got off to the worst possible start on Saturday as he oversaw a disappointing defeat to Wolves at Molineux, leaving the Blues to flounder in the bottom half of the Premier League.

Los Blancos’ preparation was not ideal either, however, as they lost to Villarreal in a five-goal thriller. Lampard will come face-to-face with one of his former bosses in Carlo Ancelotti when the two sides meet on Wednesday.