Chelsea have played down reports they have opened talks with Frank Lampard over a new contract – but stopped short of a complete denial.
Blues chief executive Ron Gourlay was today quoted as saying ‘discussions were ongoing and must be kept confidential at this stage’ when quizzed on the veteran midfielder’s future.
But Chelsea insist Gourlay was misquoted at a press conference in Bangkok, where the Scot was visiting to promote the Blues’ pre-season tour of the Far East.
The club claim Gourlay said: ‘I am not prepared to discuss this [Lampard's future] at this time.
‘Obviously conversations must remain confidential between the club and the players at all times so that is as much as I can say.’
Lampard is faced with the prospect of leaving Stamford Bridge when his current deal expires this summer after 12 years of service.
The England international’s agent Steve Kutner said in January that the club had told Lampard that he would ‘not be offered a contract under any circumstances’.
Chelsea's apparent willingness to let Lampard leave has baffled Blues fans and observers alike, considering his fine form this season.
The 34-year-old has proven his worth with 13 goals this term to leave him just three short of Bobby Tambling's all-time Chelsea scoring record of 202.
Reports surfaced last month that Lampard's displays had convinced Chelsea to have a change of heart, and Gourlay’s initial reported comments would have raised Blues fans’ hopes even further of a U-turn by the club’s hierarchy.
~Metro » Football | Metro UK~Read more... Chelsea claim Ron Gourlay misquoted on Frank Lampard contract talks
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