Frank Lampard has attempted to clarify his contract situation by insisting that he agreed to sign with MLS side New York City FC in the summer before joining Manchester City on loan.
Yesterday, the Premier League revealed that the midfielder is solely registered to the English champions, despite an announcement last August confirming that he had signed for the newly-formed franchise in the United States following his Chelsea departure.
It was thought that Lampard was loaned to City from the American club, but the Premier League states that the 36-year-old is actually signed to a short-term City contract, which was extended on New Year's Day.
In response to the confusion, Lampard released a statement, which read: "I want to make it completely clear about my situation as I have read a lot of lies and nonsense over the last few days. When released from Chelsea last year at the end of my contract I signed a commitment to play in NYCFC for two years starting January 1, 2015.
"I was then offered the chance to train and be part of the Man City squad in the interim to keep myself in the best shape going into New York. This period has since been extended by Man City and I now will start playing for NYCFC at the end of this current Premier League season.
"There has always been a constant dialogue between all parties in this time to find the best solution for everyone. I can say that I am very excited about arriving in New York and giving everything to the team to make us a success in the MLS as soon as possible. Thanks everyone for you ongoing support and I wish everyone a healthy and happy 2015!"
Lampard has found the back of the net seven times for City so far this season.
Danielle Joynson
