Frank Lampard Receiving Interest From LA Galaxy and Orlando City SC to Stay in MLS
Now that his contract has expired with NYCFC, Frank Lampard is receiving interest to stay in MLS with the LA Galaxy and Orlando City SC.
According to the Daily Mirror, “the 38-year-old [Lampard] has already had offers, with two MLS clubs – believed to be Orlando City and LA Galaxy.” After spending the last year and a half with New York City FC, Frank’s contract expired at the end of the 2016 season. Even though he is in the later stages of his career, it seems as though he is planning to continue playing.
After a less than stellar first season in Major League Soccer, Lampard bounced back with a productive second year with NYCFC. There was controversy initially surrounding his move to New York and to MLS because he delayed it. Once he arrived, many fans were upset because he was constantly injured or unfit.
When Frank Lampard finally gained full fitness this season, he was one of New York City’s best players. In 2016, he recorded 12 goals and three assists in only 19 appearances. In total, the English midfielder had 15 goals and four assists in 29 career matches with NYCFC in two years.
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Now that the Los Angeles Galaxy have lost Steven Gerrard, they will be looking for a replacement in the midfield. After losing an aging England international midfielder in Gerrard, it looks like they want to replace him with an even older English midfielder in Lampard. It may not be the worst move because of the success and production Frank had this year but he would likely cost them a Designated Player spot.
As for Orlando City SC, they could use more talent on their roster after missing out on the MLS Cup Playoffs this past season. While Lampard could help them sell tickets and jerseys, I don’t think he offers much in terms of performance. They already have Kaka and pairing him with Frank seems to cause more questions than answers for the squad.
While Lampard may have something left in his legs for one last season, I don’t think any Major League Soccer club should sign him as a means to improve their team. A move for Frank would mean that they are merely looking to sell tickets rather than compete for titles. While that isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it isn’t a direction many fans want to see their club go in.
The former Chelsea player will turn 39-years old during the 2017 season. Even based on his play in 2016, it would surprise many if any MLS team gave an aging player like Frank Lampard Designated Player type money. It will be interesting to see if these rumors prove to be true.