Derby County excuse Frank Lampard to 'conclude' talks with Chelsea

Derby County have excused manager Frank Lampard from reporting back for the start of pre-season to allow for his talks with Chelsea to be concluded, the Championship club announced on Monday. Lampard was given permission by Derby last week to discuss taking over the managerial vacancy at Chelsea, who are looking for a replacement for Maurizio Sarri after the Italian's return to Serie A with Juventus. The 41-year-old former England midfielder was expected to report back to Derby, but the club have given their manager time to continue negotiations with the Europa League champions. "Derby County Football Club has excused Frank Lampard from reporting back for pre-season training on Monday and Tuesday to allow his discussions regarding a potential move to Chelsea to be concluded as soon as possible," Derby said in a statement released on their website. "The first few days of pre-season training will be focused on fitness training and will continue as planned under the guidance of the fitness, medical, conditioning and sports science teams at the club’s Training Centre. "On the assumption that Frank will reach an agreement with Chelsea to become their new manager, the club shall step up its efforts to find a replacement manager." Lampard has only spent one year in management, leading Derby to last season's Championship play-off final where they lost to Aston Villa. Despite his inexperience, Lampard would be a popular appointment at Chelsea following his hugely successful 13 years at the club, when he won three Premier Leagues, four FA Cups, two League Cups, as well as the Uefa Champions League and Europa League titles. He is also the club's all-time record goalscorer with 211 goals. Lampard has received the support of former teammates, including John Terry and Willian who both believe he will be a "success" at Stamford Bridge .

Derby County excuse Frank Lampard to 'conclude' talks with Chelsea

The 41-year-old is expected to fill the vacancy left by Maurzio Sarri, who left after one season to join Juventus