Frank Lampard Signs New One(1) Year Chelsea Contract

FRANK LAMPARD has signed a new one-year contract � after Chelsea decided they could not afford to let their all-time leading goalscorer leave. With his previous deal expiring at the end of the season, the Blues appeared determined to allow the England midfielder to walk away for free. But Lamps, who was being courted by MLS side LA Galaxy, has thrashed out terms to remain at the club he loves. The veteran midfielder said: "I'm absolutely delighted. Everybody knows I always maintained the dream was to stay at Chelsea. "We've been talking for ages and even though it went on for quite a period it was always amicable. "I want to thank Roman Abramovich for everything he's done in making the dream a reality. "I love this club, the staff, the players and especially the supporters, who have treated me fantastically since the day I arrived. "The thought of helping the club to more success in the forthcoming years is all I ever wanted. I couldn't be happier." The 34-year-old capped a record-breaking individual season last night by skippering Chelsea to glory in the Europa League final against Benfica. He equalled Bobby Tambling�s club record of 202 goals and then bettered it by scoring a brace in the 2-1 win at Aston Villa on Saturday. And Lampard will relish the opportunity to add to his tally next term � when Jose Mourinho is expected to return for a second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay added: "Frank has been an important player for us for a long time and has played a significant part in the club's success. "We have been talking to him since the end of last year and our discussions have been entirely positive throughout. "We are delighted we are now announcing an extension to his contract which will keep him at the club until 2014."