Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Moratti respects Lampard

02 Aug 2008 - 16:17:47

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Internazionale president Massimo Moratti insists Frank Lampard wanted to leave Chelsea this summer but believes the midfielder has decided to stay in London to be with his father.

Lampard's mother died earlier this year and Moratti respects the 30-year-old's decision not to move to the San Siro.

"Was I disappointed by his attitude? Not at all, I found him to be very serious and focused," Moratti told Sky Sport Italia.

"He wanted to leave Chelsea, I am certain of that, although it created a lot of anxiety for him and in fact he remained because of family matters.

"He stayed for his father, who he is extremely close to, and for his whole environment. Therefore he was unable to create that split that they expected and we were hoping for.

"(Inter coach Jose) Mourinho did hope for this move, but we knew it was going to be difficult.

"So instead we thought of a player who in terms of age and wages is a good deal. I am happy that Sulley Ali Muntari has arrived."