Manchester City midfielder Frank Lampard expressed his gratitude towards Chelsea fans following his side’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Saturday night.
It was an emotional return to Stamford Bridge for the former England international — a legend in the eyes of the Chelsea fans as their all-time leading scorer. He was given a fine ovation, though, and embarked on a lap of honor at the end — something he was denied when he left the club.
"There were more chances for City in the game, Chelsea had a big old game in midweek and the draw probably suits them in the long run," Lampard admitted after the match. "It was a solid game and Chelsea probably accepted a point in the end."
Lampard added: "This doesn’t change anything. Chelsea will be happy to be five points clear, we’re not stupid, we know what that lead is. But there are lots of points to play for."
On his own reception, he added: "The Chelsea fans showed complete class at the end. I enjoyed this.
Chelsea midfielder Nemanja Matic was happy to take a point after the draw with Manchester City.
Chelsea remain five points clear of their title rivals after their much-anticipated head-to-head failed to catch fire. Loic Remy’s goal had given Chelsea the lead but City got level when David Silva stuck out a leg and diverted Sergio Aguero’s shot. Chelsea offered little in attack after that, but despite doing the majority of the attacking, City could not get the winner they craved.
"I think it is important for us and for them," Matic told Sky Sports 1. "To be honest we expected three points, but I think the draw is a good result for both teams."
Matic added: "We had some chances, they had some. But it’s the same, five points, and we are happy because of that. City showed they are very strong, they never give up and scored in the last minute of the first half."
Matic added that his side’s extra-time clash with Liverpool in midweek had taken its toll.
"I am happy with how we played but we did our best after a hard game of 120 minutes," he added. "We felt it especially in the last 20 minutes, a little bit tired, but I am happy because everyone gave 100 percent."