Frank Lampard breaks his silence with grace and thanks Roman Abramovich after being axed by Chelsea

Axed Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has revealed his frustration and admitted that he had wanted more time this season in his first public statement since being dismissed by the club.

Blues legend Lampard issued a reaction to his brutal sacking on Monday evening, telling fans that he had hoped he would be allowed to try to improve stuttering Chelsea’s fortunes this season.

Responding through the League Managers Association, Lampard said: ‘It has been a privilege and an honour to manage Chelsea, a club that has been a big part of my life for so long.

Frank Lampard said he had hoped for more patience to improve Chelsea before being dumped

The all-time top scorer at the club was sacked on Monday after dismal Premier League results

‘Firstly, I would like to thank the fans for the incredible support that I have received over the last 18 months. I hope they know what that means to me.

‘When I took on this role I understood the challenges that lay ahead in a difficult time for the football club.

‘I am proud of the achievements that we made, and I am proud of the academy players that have made their step into the first team and performed so well. They are the future of the club.

‘I am disappointed not to have had the time this season to take the club forward and bring it to the next level.

Lampard thanked owner Roman Abramovich, who admitted that axing him had been ‘difficult’

The pair enjoyed years of trophy-laden glory together when Lampard was a Chelsea midfielder

‘I want to thank Mr Abramovich, the board, players, my coaching team and everyone at the club for their hard work and dedication, especially in these unprecedented and challenging times.

‘I wish the team and the club every success for the future.’

Rookie manager Lampard had been under pressure following a dire run of five defeats in eight Premier League games, although his abrupt departure earlier in the day had still been a shock to many supporters.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich took the unprecedented step of explaining the ruthless move as part of the club’s announcement, calling it a ‘very difficult decision’.