Saturday 10 January 2015 11:32, UK
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has attempted to draw a line under the Frank Lampard saga but has refused to rule out signing the midfielder on a permanent basis.
On Friday, both the Premier League champions and Major League Soccer side New York City FC admitted to making mistakes about how Lampard’s move to the Etihad Stadium was reported.
The confusion prompted Lampard to release a statement in which he explained he was offered the chance to play at City until January – a period which has since been extended till the end of the season when Lampard will move to New York.
The matter is now closed as far as City boss Pellegrini is concerned.
"I think it's an issue which is finished,” the Chilean said. “Frank now is here. I know that there a lot of different opinions about Frank, about that.
“I respect all of them, but the decision is taken already and Frank will stay here until the end of the season."
With Yaya Toure heading to the Africa Nations Cup with Ivory Coast, City were understandably keen to retain Lampard’s services for the remainder of this season.
But Pellegrini offered a rather cryptic response when asked what the future beyond this season might hold for the former Chelsea midfielder.
"I think Frank is doing very well with us and I am happy with him as part of the squad.” Pellegrini said. “Not only on the pitch but off the pitch, as a professional, as a leader, which is always good for young players, to see him working here.
"But at the end of the season, he finishes his contract here. I cannot say what will happen in the future. If I say I cannot say, you will suppose that maybe he will stay here."
