Emotional Frank Lampard struggles through Sky Sports interview after Coventry’s gut-wrenching play-off defeat
EMOTIONAL Frank Lampard struggled through a Sky Sports interview after Coventry’s gut-wrenching playoff defeat to Sunderland.
The Sky Blues fought back from a goal down to level things up in the north east last night.
Coventry and Sunderland then looked set for a penalty shootout to settle their thrilling tie.
But disaster struck for the visitors as Dan Ballard headed home a winner in the 122nd minute.
Sunderland’s 3-2 aggregate win means they will now face Sheffield United at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.
However, Coventry have been left to pick up the pieces of their heartbreaking defeat after an epic season under Lampard.
The Chelsea legend replaced Mark Robins in November and led his side from a relegation battle to a fifth-place finish.
But despite the amazing run, Lampard was left stunned after seeing his promotion hopes fade away.
In an interview with Sky Sports, the former England midfielder was clearly shell-shocked as he opened up on one of the “cruellest” moments of his career.
Yet Super Frank, who was harassed by a shirtless home fan at the final whistle, remained gracious as he congratulated Sunderland on their victory.
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He said: “(Cruel way to go?) Yeah, that’s the biggest example I think I’ve probably been involved in.
“Firstly, congratulations to Sunderland, they go to the final. But, I’ve got immense pride in my players, over the two games, we dominated at home and dominated huge periods of this game.
“We came here with absolute bravery to play the way we play. They had to concede to us because of the way we played, the way the lads controlled the game.
“They don’t deserve it, the players. I’m a lot older, I’ve been around a lot, so I’ve taken whacks and I’ve had success.
“I suppose I can be maybe a tiny bit more balanced in my job, but for those players, they don’t deserve that. So, congratulations to Sunderland. We’re not bitter, but we were the better team over the two football matches.
“I can’t ask for any more. I’m so disappointed for the club, for the fans, the owner and the players. Once the dust settles, I cannot be disappointed with the way they play.
“It’s cruel. But I can’t think of anything but pride for the season and for tonight. We wanted to go to Wembley. But sometimes the gods conspire against you in certain ways.”