Frank Lampard has signed a new one year deal with Chelsea. The 34 year old midfielder’s future had been the subject of speculation for most of the past season, and for a period it appeared this year would be his last with the club.

Today, following the announcement, Lampard said: “I'm absolutely delighted. Everybody knows I always maintained the dream was to stay at Chelsea. We've been talking for ages.

“I love this club, the staff, the players and especially the supporters, who have treated me fantastically since the day I arrived.

“The thought of helping the club to more success in the forthcoming years is all I ever wanted. I couldn't be happier.”

Lampard joined the club in 2001 and has since become the club’s record goalscorer and earlier this year became just the third player to play in more than 600 games for the club.

Ron Gourlay, Chelsea Chief Executive, said: “Frank has been an important player for Chelsea Football Club for a long time and has played a significant part in the club's success.

“We have been talking to him since the end of last year and our discussions have been entirely positive throughout. We are delighted we are now announcing an extension to his contract which will keep him at the club until 2014.”