Chelsea fans gave Frank Lampard a standing ovation yesterday, despite his goal being responsible for ending their 100 per cent record in the league this season.
The Chelsea legend came off the bench to score for his new side Manchester City in the 1-1 draw at the Etihad.
City had Pablo Zabaleta sent off in the second half for a second bookable offence, after a clash with Diego Costa.
Chelsea then took advantage of their numerical advantage, as Andre Schurrle gave them the lead following an excellent assist from Eden Hazard.
But Lampard struck late on to level the game, as the sides shared the spoils.
After the game City boss Manuel Pellegrini criticised Chelsea’s tactics during the game, comparing them to Stoke City’s.
"I think we played 90 minutes against a small team trying to defend” said the Chilean, adding "I would not be happy to play that way. Ten players defended their own half, they scored a counter attack and they continued to defend until the end."
Jose Mourinho refused to comment on Pellegrini's criticisms, saying "Many times he says he doesn't speak about me or my team but he continues to do so. Don't ask me about these words."
Lampard, meanwhile, thanked both sets of fans for the reception he got at the Etihad when he came on.
He described his welcome as “amazing”, adding “I can't speak highly enough of the fans. I came here to do a job and it was a special and weird day.”
Pellegrini also praised the midfielder, saying "He will be a very important player for us. I think that maybe he was not happy to score against such an important team for him, but he is very professional."
