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Lampard returns to training following compassionate leave

28/04/2008

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard returned to training today for the first time since his mother passed away last week.

The England international was granted compassionate leave by Blues boss Avram Grant to grieve after Pat Lampard, who is also Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp's sister in law, died from pneumonia.

Lampard missed Chelsea's 2-1 victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon.

And during the game his team-mates unveiled a tribute to the player and his mother after Michael Ballack opened the scoring towards the end of the first half.

In addition to missing the crucial game against United, Lampard also sat out games against Wigan Athletic and Everton the previous week after his mother was taken to hospital.

Her condition had been thought to be improving but deteriorated suddenly last Wednesday and Thursday.

An announcement was made on the club's website on behalf of the player, thanking fans and everyone associated with the club for their messages of support and condolence following the sad news.

Despite returning to training today, Lampard's availability for the Blues' Champions League semi-final second leg against Liverpool on Wednesday is still unknown.