Frank Lampard has been taken up a managerial role for Derby County and replaced Gary Rowett. This is the first time that the England midfielder has taken up a managerial role and is quite aware of the challenges of the same. However, Lampard is confident of his abilities and will make sure that he puts them to the best of use. The midfielder has signed the contract for three years

"I've always wanted to manage a club with a big tradition and history like Derby County, so this is a huge opportunity. I have spent considerable time discussing the role and the club's objectives with the chairman and board members," said Lampard.

While talking about the new role Lampard said, "This is my first job as a manager, but I've worked closely with some of the best coaches in the game and I'm confident in my own abilities and those of the team around me, including the board. I know it won't be easy - managing a football team never is - but I'm really looking forward to the challenge ahead."

Derby chairperson Mel Morris said, “Few players have achieved what Frank has in his career to date. He's a winner, a leader who knows what it takes to succeed and who has the character and charisma to be a fantastic manager for us. The board were unanimous that he was the stand-out applicant with many highly desirable and unique capabilities."

Lampard represented England at three World Cups and Euro Cup 2004. He was also named Chelsea Player of the Year thrice in his career. Lampard is the club's all-time top goalscorer with 211 goals in all competitions.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 31, 2018 05:06 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).