Chelsea legend Frank Lampard in line for shock return to management

Former Everton and Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is in line for a shock return to management.

Lampard has been out of work since his spell as Chelsea’s caretaker manager last season, following the sacking of Graham Potter.

It marked his second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge, having also had a stint as Blues boss between 2019 and 2021.

But according to an Athletic source, Lampard and former Aston Villa boss Dean Smith are among the finalists for Charlotte FC’s head coaching vacancy.

The publication claimed that the MLS outfit is nearing an end to its interview process and is aiming to have a new manager by late December ahead of preseason.

Lampard has previous links to the MLS, having seen out his illustrious playing career with New York City FC.

The former England international has also previously taken charge of Everton, leading them to Premier League safety in the 2021/2022 campaign, only to be sacked the following season after a poor run of results.

He started his managerial career at Derby County in 2018, guiding them to the Championship play-off final, before losing to Aston Villa.

Lampard was also reported to have been on the shortlist of French club Lyon back in September.

Meanwhile, Smith led Aston Villa to Premier League promotion in 2019 and remained with the club until November 2021.

He has also had spells in charge of Norwich City and Leicester City, the latter of which only lasted eight matches.

Charlotte fired head coach Christian Lattanzio in the off-season.

While the club made the playoffs for the first time in their two-year MLS history, they lost 5-2 to the New York Red Bulls in the play-in round.

Charlotte will be hiring their third-ever full-time head coach at the start of their third season of existence.