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Midfielder Frank Lampard will stay at Manchester City for the remainder of the season, after getting an extension to his current contract at the club. The decision means that the 36-year-old’s debut in Major League Soccer (MLS) for New York City FC (NYCFC) will be delayed. The former England international joined the club in August on a six-month loan deal.
NYCFC confirmed the news saying that Lampard will miss the initial part of the season, although the club said in a statement that his "exact starting date with New York City FC will be confirmed as the EPL and MLS seasons unfold."
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Lampard was first signed by the US-based club in July, but with the MLS expansion side not starting league play until March 2015, a short stint at City was agreed upon to ensure that he remains match-fit and maintains optimum fitness. His move to Manchester City was seen as a shock, considering his legendary status at his former club Chelsea. Manchester City were able to get this deal done because they co-own NYCFC with baseball team New York Yankees.
But Lampard has shown good form in his time at the Etihad, having scored 6 goals in 17 games across all competitions. His presence in the side would be of even more importance in January, considering one of the main men in the midfield department, Yaya Toure, will be away on international duty, representing his nation Ivory Coast in the African Nations Cup.
He will be here once he finishes his duties at City: Reyna
NYCFC sporting director Claudio Reyna said that Lampard has contributed immensely to Manchester City’s success this season and was confident of him coming to the United States, once he is finished with all his commitments in England.
"Frank is a star, and it is no surprise that Manchester City is rewarded by his contributions on the field every single day.”
“He is eager to get to New York once his commitment ends in England and will be available to play on arrival as a permanent member of the squad given he will come to us having played at the highest level," Reyna said.
