Chelsea vs Manchester City: Frank Lampard accused of being a 'traitor' to Blues, but fans split on returning midfielder

Lampard returns to Stamford Bridge today for the first time since leaving to join Manchester City

A Chelsea fans holds a sign aimed at Frank Lampard before the game against Manchester City (Getty Images)

Despite hoping he’d be given a warm welcome on his return to Chelsea, Frank Lampard appears to have lost one or two fans due to his move to Manchester City.

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Lampard joined the reigning Premier League champions in a convoluted and embarrassing deal that involved a move to New York City FC that never actually happened. Things were only made worse when Lampard came off the bench to score the equaliser in City’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the Etihad earlier this season.

His return to Stamford Bridge was somewhat delayed after Manuel Pellegrini named him on the bench, but some Chelsea fans wasted no time in showing their displeasure at what has been perceived as an act of treachery.

One fan spotted at the match before kick-off was holding up a banner that read: “Lampard. You are not a legend anymore. You are a traitor to Chelsea FC and Chelsea fans.”

However, some fans still held positive emotions towards the club’s record goalscorers, and is name was roundly cheered by most of those in the stands when it was read out before kick-off.