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Derby County owner Mel Morris has broken his silence on manager Frank Lampard's future amid continued speculation linking him with the Chelsea job.

Lampard is being heavily tipped to make a dramatic return to Stamford Bridge after one season with the Rams.

The 40-year-old is a Chelsea legend following a stellar playing career with the West London club.

He is favourite to replace Maurizio Sarri, who has left the Blues to take over at Italian champions Juventus.

As it stands, no formal approach for Lampard has been made - and Derby have been in talks with the former England midfielder over a new contract.

Morris, it would seem, is not resigned to losing his manager just yet.

"There's no change in the situation at present, except for the fact that Chelsea no longer have a manager," said the Rams chairman in a statement.

"Of course, we have made it very clear to everyone, but most importantly to Frank, that we want to retain Frank for the long term.

"If Chelsea want to hire Frank then it is in their gift to make an offer in pursuit of that.

"In the meantime, we will continue to put our best foot forward to continue with our plans for the coming season and work with Frank for him to know how much he is wanted by everyone associated with the club."