Frank Lampard has been named the League Managers Association Manager of the Year, receiving a touching personal message from Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary Manchester United manager after whom the trophy is named.
Remarkable Achievement at Coventry City
Under Lampard's leadership, Coventry City dominated the Championship this season, finishing top of the table with 95 points—11 points ahead of their closest rivals. The Chelsea legend took charge of the Sky Blues in November 2024 and has achieved a remarkable turnaround in his first full season at the helm.
Next season will mark Coventry's return to the top flight for the first time since 2000/01, when they were relegated from the Premier League. The club had fallen as low as League Two in 2017/18, making this promotion even more impressive.
Lampard's Managerial Journey
The 47-year-old had a mixed managerial record before arriving at Coventry, but his reputation has been significantly enhanced by their stunning Championship campaign. On Tuesday night, England boss Thomas Tuchel presented Lampard with the Sir Alex Ferguson Trophy for LMA Manager of the Year.
The legendary Manchester United manager sent a personal message, which 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.'
Praise from Peers
Celtic's title-winning boss Martin O'Neill, who is LMA Chair, added: '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.'
Emotional Reaction
After securing promotion last month, an emotional Lampard told Sky Sports: 'It makes me feel emotional because they (the squad) are so great to work with and they deserve every second of celebrating. 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.'
Strong Competition
In winning the LMA Manager of the Year, Lampard saw off contenders including 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).
