Frank Lampard says he will be a human shield for Derby players after taking on first managerial job

FRANK LAMPARD has guaranteed his new derby players a human shield – as well as an exciting young manager – after they appointed the untested star.

The Chelsea legend was never forgiven for leaving boyhood club West Ham and, despite being a brilliant athlete, was labelled ‘Fat Frank’ by some bitter rival fans.

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And the Stamford Bridge goal machine says he will use his thick skin to shield his new Rams stars as they make another bid for Premier League promotion.

Lampard said: “It feels great, it’s a fantastic opportunity for me.

“I am well aware of this club’s tradition, I knew the size of the club and the fanbase.

“For this opportunity to be my first job is a great one. I had conversations with Mel and couldn’t wait to get started. When I was a player I took stick for 20 years, so I can take it away from us!”

PA:Press Association

PA:Press Association

Twitter @dcfcofficial

PA:Press Association

The 39-year-old could have settled for a cushy job in the media or retired from the game after a glittering career.

But he the lure of the ruthless business was too much for him to ignore.

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Despite a career under Premier league greats like uncle Harry Redknapp and Jose Mourinho, Lampard insists he will not be a clone of past bosses.

He said: “I worked in the media but stull had the desire to work at the cut-throat end of the business.

“I’ve thought about it throughout my career because worked for some great managers.

“I want to be myself not a clone of any manager.

“I’ll be open, I’m a young manager freshly retired.

“I know the dressing room, it’s a blank canvas for me, I’m a hard worker.”

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John Terry is a free agent after missing out on Premier League promotion with Aston Villa.

But Lapmard insists he has not yet tapped up his friend and former Chelsea team-mate who is enjoying a holiday.

He said: “I did notice that, I got a message from him this morning.
“At the moment he is in Greece – conversations start now but that is not one of them.”