Ex-Chelsea manager Frank Lampard returned to soccer on Thursday when he was hired to coach Coventry City in the second division. The 46-year-old Lampard signed a 2 1/2-year contract. Lampard would bring a “clear understanding of exactly what is needed to succeed at the very top level," Coventry owner Doug King said.

Frank Lampard has been appointed as manager of Championship side Coventry City, the club confirmed on Thursday. Lampard, who has signed a 2 ½ year deal, replaces Mark Robins, who was sacked on Nov. 7 after their seventh loss in 14 league games.

Frank Lampard has spent 18 months on the sidelines and is raring to get going on the training pitch with Coventry after being confirmed as Mark Robins' successor