Темы: English Premier League, Chelsea, Frank Lampard
After 13 years at Chelsea, making 648 appearances, scoring 211 goals, English midfielder Frank Lampard says farewell to the London side in a heart-warming open letter

Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard has confirmed his departure from Chelsea after 13 years of loyal, dedicated service at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues midfielder has found it hard getting playing time under Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho and has decided now is the best time to leave the club he joined in 2001.

And after 648 appearances and 211 goals, making the Three Lions midfielder the London club's all-time leading goal-scorer, he waves goodbye to the Chelsea fans, penning down an open letter to the supporters.

FAREWELL: Lampard announes his departure from Chelsea after 13 years at the London side 

English Premier League, Chelsea, Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, Gary Cahill 

“When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success,” read “Super” Frank's message to the fans.

"This club has become part of my life and I have so many people to thank for the opportunity. Firstly, Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun this experience."

Petr Cech took to Twitter to praise the 35-year-old Englishman 

"The best midfielder I've had the honor of playing with, you're a true Chelsea legend. You are a real winner and an inspiration to me and everyone at Chelsea. Good luck mate!" - John Terry salutes his long-serving team-mate 

UEFA Champions LEague, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Frank Lampard

"Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our club and took us all to new levels. His desire to push the club to the top of the football world has rubbed off on everyone."

"All the brilliant team-mates who I have been lucky enough to train and play alongside for so long. Not just their football qualities but also the friendships I have gained along the way."

"Finally and most importantly, I would like to thank the Chelsea fans. I believe they are the greatest fans in world football. You have supported me from the moment I arrived. Not only on the pitch, but in difficult moments in my personal life off the pitch. I will never forget."

The Chelsea fans took the news emotionally