Lamps backs Clarke battle

Blues midfielder tells coach to follow his dream

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 15th September 2008

Steve Clarke Chelsea

Clarke: Seeking Hammers switch

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Frank Lampard has given his backing to Steve Clarke's bid to become the new assistant manager at West Ham.

The Chelsea midfielder admits the departure of the likeable coach would leave a void at Stamford Bridge, but believes everyone should be allowed to follow their dreams.

Clarke has made no secret of his desire to one day take a managerial post of his own, and sees the opportunity to work with the inexperienced Gianfranco Zola at Upton Park as another step on the ladder.

However, Chelsea are currently refusing to give their coach permission to speak with the Hammers and are demanding substantial compensation should they be forced to part with Clarke.

The Blues are believed to be holding out for a settlement of around £4.8million, while West Ham are prepared to pay just £500,000.

Servant

The whole affair is said to have left Clarke 'distraught', but he will be delighted to have received the support of such a high-profile player at Stamford Bridge.

"If he goes to West Ham it will be a loss, but I don't think you can ever take away a man's right to do what he wants to do," Lampard said in the Evening Standard.

"I think Clarkey has been an unbelievable servant for Chelsea for many years as a player and as a coach.

"He has been an important member of the backroom staff in what we've done over the last few years.

"But if he feels he wants to go and do something different - I know he has intentions to be a manager in his own right - you can only wish him all the best."