Chelsea sack Frank Lampard following FA Cup win over Luton

Frank Lampard watches on in his final game as Chelsea manager yesterday

Chelsea have sacked manager Frank Lampard after 18 months in charge following their 3-1 win over Luton Town in the FA Cup yesterday.

Tammy Abraham's hat-trick wasn't enough to keep the former Blues and England midfielder in a job, after a disappointing run in the Premier League which has seen them lose five out of their last eight games.

Lampard didn't appear to have any inkling of the decision when speaking to the press following the victory, but speculation grew this morning, and a statement from owner Roman Abramovich on the club's official website this morning said: "This was a very difficult decision for the club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him.

“He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics.

"However, under current circumstances we believe it is best to change managers.

“On behalf of everyone at the club, the board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as head coach and wish him every success in the future.

"He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”