John Terry pays tribute to Chelsea legend Frank Lampard following his retirement

Posted Friday, February 03, 2017 by squawka.com

Chelsea defender John Terry has paid tribute to former Blues and England teammate Frank Lampard after the midfielder announced his retirement on Thursday.

The 38-year-old midfielder, who spent last year with New York City in Major League Soccer, announced his decision on social media after giving up his search for a new club.

The West Ham academy product brings an end to a career which has spanned over twenty years at the highest level, seeing him win three Premier League titles, the Champions League, the Europa League, four FA Cups and two League Cups.

Terry played alongside him in the spine of the Chelsea team which conquered England and Europe and paid an emotional tribute to his former teammate after hearing the news:

He wrote on his official Instagram account: "Frank Lampard has today announced his retirement from football.The GREATEST player in the history of our great football club [Chelsea].

"It was an absolute pleasure playing with you mate and seeing first hand the dedication and hard work you put in, on and off the pitch, the best trainer by a million miles every single day, inspiring me and everyone at the club.

"I miss you next to me in the dressing room and miss you grabbing a bag of balls after training when everyone went inside. You stayed out working on your finishing, 20 goals a year wasn't good enough for you, every year you wanted 25,30 goals I love that about you. I will miss you getting 4 cones and doing sprints after training. setting the example for the kids in the academy.

"All the great memories together winning trophy after trophy year after year I will never forget ???? you have won everything and should be extremely proud. It's been my pleasure and honour to play and experience all those great moments with you.

"648 appearances (we nearly caught Peter Bonetti and Ron Harris 211 goals, unbelievable achievement.

"A gentleman both on and off the pitch, leader in the dressing room and if I could choose one person next to me in the trenches it would be you.

"A great dad to your two beautiful girls and I'm proud to call you my mate. Good luck for the future, whatever you choose to do will be a huge success

"Love Ya Lampsy.

"Legend, hero inspiration and the best ever."

Lampard scored a club record 211 goals during his time with Chelsea and is one of seven players, and the only midfielder, to have scored 150 or more goals in the Premier League. He also won 106 caps for his England and scored 29 goals.