Back in blue: Lampard returns on interim basis to rescue Chelsea

Chelsea appointed former boss Frank Lampard as their caretaker manager until the end of the season on Thursday.

Owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali said they were "delighted to welcome Frank back to Stamford Bridge", days after the sacking of Graham Potter.

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The 44-year-old held talks with the club all week about returning to his old stomping ground in a temporary capacity.

Lampard's original 18-month spell in the Blues' dugout ended with his own dismissal in January 2021, but he now has the chance to pick up where he left off and give Chelsea time to identify the right long-term successor.

Lampard has been available after being sacked by Everton in January, ending a disappointing reign, and was in the stands to witness Chelsea's goalless draw against Liverpool on Tuesday in what now seems a telling appearance.

Meanwhile, it is understood that the Chelsea hierarchy have already earmarked Potter's long-term successor as they have begun the interview process.

One potential front-runner, ex-Spain coach Luis Enrique, flew into London on Wednesday to meet with club officials as the hunt for a permanent appointment began in earnest.

Meanwhile, the in-demand Julian Nagelsmann, sacked recently by Bayern Munich, is also thought to be a contender but his availability comes with possible contractual complications.

Lampard's first game in the Chelsea dugout since returning will be away to Wolves on Saturday (16:00 SA time).