Frank Lampard has been named League Managers Association Manager of the Year and received a touching message from the man the trophy was named after.
Under the Chelsea legend’s leadership Coventry dominated the Championship this season, topping the table with 95 points, 11 more than their closest rivals.
Lampard took charge of the Sky Blues in November 2024 and has pulled off a fantastic achievement in his first full season at the helm.
Next season will be the first Coventry have spent in the top flight since 2000/01 when they were relegated from the Premier League, having dropped as low as League Two in 2017/18.
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The 47-year-old had a mixed managerial CV before arriving at Coventry but his reputation has been significantly enhanced thanks to their stunning Championship campaign.
On Tuesday night Lampard was awarded the Sir Alex Ferguson Trophy for LMA Manager of the Year by England boss Thomas Tuchel and the legendary Manchester United manager had a personal message for him.
The message read: ‘Many congratulations, Frank, on being named LMA Manager of the Year. You should be very proud of what you and your team have accomplished.
‘Your personality as a manager and a leader is so clearly defined in how your team has played great football this season, with confidence and self-belief, and I’ve enjoyed watching them. I know from speaking with you that you have great humility and, that important quality of a curious mind for learning.
‘I’m sure winning this award will mean a great deal to you Frank and I wish you the best of luck in the Premier League next season.’
Celtic’s title-winning boss Martin O’Neill is LMA Chair and added of Lampard: ‘His leadership, professionalism and unwavering commitment have set the standard throughout the campaign, and the success he has delivered at Coventry City is a testament to both his vision and his ability to inspire those around him.
‘To be recognised by his fellow managers and presented with this accolade is a richly deserved honour, reflecting the significant impact he has made at the club.’
After securing promotion last month, an emotional Lampard told Sky Sports: ‘It makes me feel emotional becaused they (the squad) are so great to work with and they deserve every second of celebrating,” he said.
‘This League is hard, even teams fighting for relegation…people think it’s easy and it’s not. It’s getting harder.
‘I am proud of myself and the boys and the staff. We went into a bit of an unknown but we have fallen in love, with the players how they have reacted and how the fanbase has reacted.’
In winning the LMA Manager of the Year, Lampard saw off contenders Keith Andrews (Brentford), Mikel Arteta (Arsenal), Unai Emery (Aston Villa), Pep Guardiola (Man City), Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth), Michael Skubala (Lincoln City) and Andy Woodman (Bromley).