Lampard will not become Chelsea coach and will continue playing, says Conte

Antonio Conte has confirmed Frank Lampard will not be joining his Chelsea coaching staff after revealing the midfielder wants to carry on playing football.

Lampard - who spent 13 years at Chelsea - met with the current Blues squad on Wednesday as they trained at Stamford Bridge ahead of their Boxing Day match against Bournemouth. 

The 38-year-old has been invited to do his coaching badges by the Football Association after leaving MLS side New York City FC in November.

But Conte has confirmed he and Lampard did not hold talks over coaching at Chelsea after learning of the former England international's desire to carry on playing.

“Yesterday, yes. It was very good, very nice to see him," Conte said at a news conference at Cobham Training Centre. "He's a legend for this club and it's fantastic when he comes to see the training sessions, to talk with us and stay with former team-mates. I found him in good form.

“We didn't talk about this [becoming a coach]. I think Frank wants to continue to play football, and I repeat: I saw him in good form, in good shape, to continue to play football. Then, for his future, I think it's better to ask him.”

Lampard has returned to his native London with his wife Christine Bleakley and also attended his former side's recent Premier League match against West Brom.

Chelsea have also invited ex-stars Michael Essien, Ashley Cole and Joe Cole to train at Cobham.

Lampard joined Chelsea in 2001 and went on to become the club's all-time top goalscorer with 211 strikes in all competitions.

He lifted numerous honours with the west Londoners including three Premier League titles, four FA Cups and also one Champions League crown.