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Frank James Lampard (born 20 June 1978 in Romford, London) is an English football player currently at Chelsea and previously with West Ham United. He is a regular member of the England national team.
He has several famous footballing relatives; His father, Frank Lampard Sr., was also an England international. His cousin is Jamie Redknapp, who plays for Southampton FC, and his uncle is Harry Redknapp, who is manager of Southampton.
Another product of West Ham United's youth system, Lampard rose through the ranks at Upton Park and spent a brief spell on loan at Swansea in 1995. He is a hardworking player with precise shooting and passing ability. In the 2000/01 season, Lampard reacted madly to the news of a £17million deal that brings Rio Ferdinand to Leeds United. That followed by the departure of his father Frank, who followed Harry Redknapp out of Upton Park in May 2001, lead to Lampard's Upton Park exit.
In the summer of 2001, he was signned by then Chelsea Manager Claudio Ranieri, costing the London club a fee of £11million.
He made his full England debut against Belgium in October 1999.
Lampard has established himself as a regular of the multi-million pound Chelsea squad, and a fans favourite. He is also second choice captain of the club, behind John Terry. Despite being a midfield player, Lampard has an impressive scoring ratio and a key eye for goal. Although not a striker, he finishes like one. Lampard also contributes just as much to the Chelsea side through his goal assists. He is usually Chelsea's first choice penalty and set-piece taker as well.
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