Why Rio Ferdinand stopped speaking to Frank Lampard

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has revealed why he stopped speaking to England teammate Frank Lampard.

During their respective careers for United and Chelsea, both Ferdinand and Lampard were key players for their clubs.

However, despite being close friends in their academy days at West Ham United, Ferdinand admitted their friendship and relationship became strained due to competitiveness and rivalry.

Ferdinand told BT Sport: “It does [impact your friendships]. It is well documented Frank Lampard and I grew up together at West Ham.

“When he went to Chelsea and I went to Manchester United, we didn't speak. It wasn't a conversation or a fallout.

“He was focused on winning as many trophies as possible and I was as well. It happens. Some relationships stay the same.”

The pair went on to have successful careers at United and Chelsea, with both getting their hands on major trophies.

Ferdinand won six Premier League titles, two League Cups, a Champions League and a FIFA Club World Cup during his time with the Red Devils.

Whilst Lampard got his hands on three Premier Leagues, four FA Cups, two League Cups, one Champions League and one Europa League.

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After their respective careers ended, both players had a go at punditry and were often spotted together analysing matches for the likes of BT Sport and BBC Sport.

Lampard has since dived into the world of management, having led Championship side Derby County to the play-off final, the former midfielder was hired by Chelsea.

However, his return to Stamford Bridge as a manager did not end well as he was sacked after a run of poor results.

This season, Lampard was let go by Everton after another poor start to the season having kept them in the Premier League last campaign.

Ferdinand and Lampard will forever be two of the finest English players of their generation.