Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard may well make their MLS debuts on the same weekend after all. Gerrard is set to play for the LA Galaxy for the first time against Club America this weekend in Guinness International Champions Cup action, and Lampard was slated to play for New York City FC for the first time on Sunday against Toronto FC.
However, according to a report posted on New York City's official club website, the man known as "Super Frankie Lampard" in his Chelsea days has picked up a calf strain in training, ruling him out of the Toronto match.
Lampard disappointed
Speaking to NYCFC.com today, Lampard spoke of his disappointment that his debut is being delayed. “I’m hugely disappointed to be missing out on Sunday’s game, which I have been really looking forward to. I’ve been feeling great in training and have loved working with the squad. Unfortunately I sustained a small strain to my calf during a session," said Lampard.
Lampard went on to state that, while he is disappointed not be involved this weekend, the injury shouldn't keep him out for a prolonged period of time.
"Whilst I’ve been taking it day by day since then and have been involved in light training, I’ve just been advised by the medical team that it needs a few days’ rest for it to heal fully. As I say, it’s personally very disappointing for me but these things happen in football. The good news is that I should be back in full training next week. While I was desperate to play a role on Sunday, I have to take the advice of our medical team to let it heal and not risk further injury so I can get back on the pitch and play a full role as soon as possible,” the attacking midfielder said.
Debut delayed
With this latest setback, the world of MLS must continue to wait to see Frank Lampard in sky blue. The initial delay came when his stay at Manchester City was extended, keeping him there through the end of the English domestic season. Now, the world will have to wait one more week. It's likely that he will make his debut on Saturday, July 18th against the New England Revolution, which will be the same weekend Gerrard makes his debut in MLS action for the Galaxy. Although it is disappointing that Lampard's debut is further delayed, it feels rather right that he and Gerrard should debut at the same time.
While it would have generated television viewers had Lampard made his debut against the Sebastian Giovinco-led Reds of Toronto FC this Sunday, the injury does mean that his home debut will come against Kaka and Orlando City SC on Sunday, July 26th in another "Battle of the Stars".