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Gourlay misquoted on Lampard contract talks, Chelsea insist
Mar 5, 2013 2:30:00 PM
The Blues' executive was said to have told reporters that negotiations with the England international were ongoing over a new deal, but the club insist he refused to comment
Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay was misquoted when he was reported to have revealed that contract talks with Frank Lampard were ongoing.Gourlay was said to have told assembled media that negotiations with the 34-year-old were continuing while in Bangkok to announce that the club will train there ahead of next summer's pre-season tour of Asia.
But Chelsea insist the senior figure was misquoted, and are adamant he refused to comment on the matter.
Gourlay was reported as saying: "Discussions with Frank Lampard are ongoing, but they must be kept confidential at this stage."
But on their official website, the Blues insist that, when asked about Lampard's future, Gourlay actually replied: "I am not prepared to discuss this at this time.
"Obviously conversations must remain confidential between the club and the players at all times so that is as much as I can say."
Lampard is believed to be desperate to extend his 12-year stay at Stamford Bridge with his sights also set on representing England at World Cup 2014 in Brazil, while he only needs four more goals to eclipse Bobby Tambling's all-time club record of 202 goals.
Gourlay also commented on the uncertainty surround interim manager Rafa Benitez after a turbulent week for the Spaniard, explaining that the club will review his position once the season is over.
"It was the club's plan to have Rafa Benitez as the interim manager with the aim of securing a Champions League position at the end of the Premier League season," he said.
"We'll assess situation then. We can still win the Europa League and the FA Cup, but make no mistake, our priority lies with a Champions League spot."
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