LONDON (AP) — Frank Lampard’s mother died of pneumonia Thursday, leaving the Chelsea midfielder in doubt for Saturday’s crucial Premier League match against Manchester United and next week’s Champions League game against Liverpool.
Pat Lampard, who was admitted to hospital 10 days ago, died at the age of 58, Chelsea said in a statement.
"Frank would like to acknowledge and say thank you for the compassion shown to him by the manager Avram Grant and all the staff at Chelsea Football Club during what has been a terribly traumatic period for him and his family," the statement said.
"Frank and his family would also like to thank all the people that have been inundating them with wishes of support."
Lampard missed recent Premier League games against Wigan and Everton to be at his mother’s bedside. But, when her condition improved, he returned for Tuesday night’s Champions League semifinal first leg 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield.
Lampard returned to be at her bedside after the match but her health suddenly worsened.