Frank Lampard has no regrets over delaying his move to New York City FC – but has already pencilled in the date when he faces Steven Gerrard for the first time . The Manchester City midfielder was expected to join the club 's sister outfit for their maiden MLS season which kicked off earlier this month . But in a controversial move which angered many of the new franchise 's supporters , he extended his stay at the Etihad Stadium to the end of the season as Manuel Pellegrini 's men attempt to retain their Premier League title . Frank Lampard delayed his move to New York City FC to see out the season with Manchester City . The former Chelsea legend has no regrets in controversially putting off his move to the MLS . Lampard 's decision has been questioned after starting only two games for City in 2015 . With Lampard 's former club Chelsea now six points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand , and having started just two matches since the turn of the year , some have questioned the logic behind the decision . But the veteran midfielder , who won 11 trophies in a glittering 13 years at Stamford Bridge , has no such thoughts . ' I ’ m very fortunate , ' he said . 'This part of my career , coming to City , was something I never saw coming and when I look back and think , blimey , at 36 I got asked to come to the champions and a club with this pedigree of player here . ' I ’ m delighted that happened as it has done and I ’ m delighted with the future I ’ ve got and the opportunity to go on and play in New York and individually try to help there , but also be part of a new football club in one of the greatest cities in the world . ' The veteran midfielder poses in front of the New York skyline after signing for the new franchise . The 36-year-old was all smiles after being introduced as a New York City player in July 2014 . Lampard will join former Spain and Barcelona star David Villa ( centre ) at his new club . Former England team-mate Steven Gerrard will also head across the Atlantic at the end of the season to join rivals LA Galaxy . And Lampard is relishing the prospect of facing his old pal - when asked when the match takes place he was quick to answer . 'August 23 , ' he said without hesitation . 'It ’ s at their place . It ’ s the day after my daughter ’ s birthday so I should know ! ' Lampard believes Liverpool legend Gerrard , 34 , has made the right call to follow him to the US after 17 years in the first team at Anfield . Steven Gerrad was sent of in his last game against Manchester United ahead of his own move to America . Former England team-mates never quite clicked while playing together for the national team . Lampard is looking forward to renewing hostilities with Gerrard once they are both playing across the pond . ' I ’ m pleased for Stevie , ' he said . ' I think it ’ s a very good move for him . What more can he do at Liverpool ? 'He ’ s had a fantastic career . ' Lampard added that the pair , who retired from international duty a month apart last year , became close during their time with the Three Lions . 'We get on very well , particularly in our latter years , as captain and vice-captain of England , ' he explained . ' I ’ ve a huge amount of respect for him and look forward to getting up against him out there . ' Gerrard has signed to join MLS champions LA Galaxy where David Beckham and Robbie Keane have starred . Another of the MLS 's marquee signings has been Brazil legend Kaka arriving at Orlando City . Lampard believes it is the right moment to go for Gerrard , who was sent off 38 seconds after coming off the bench in Liverpool 's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday . ' I think only individuals know the right time for them , ' he said . ' I wasn ’ t sure about my time as a Chelsea player . The decision got made for me . When the decision is not made for you , and you have to make it yourself then it ’ s more difficult maybe . Only he knows that and I think at the minute I would say yes because what more can he do ? If not their greatest player he will be right up there with the greatest players ever . '
Frank Lampard signed for England before delaying his MLS arrival to finish the Premier League season playing for Manchester City . Ex-Chelsea star does not regret his decision despite causing a stir in US . Former New York City midfielder is looking forward to facing Steven Gerrard who will joining LA Galaxy at the end of the season .