Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has announced that he is set to leave the London club after 13 years at Stamford Bridge. The 35 year old who is Chelsea’s all time leading goalscorer with 211 goals has decided not to renew his contract after being released by the club alongside left back Ashley Cole.

The Englishman joined Chelsea since 2001 and has since then won 11 major trophies with three Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2012.

“When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success.”

“This club has become part of my life and I have so many people to thank for the opportunity. Firstly, Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun this experience.”

“Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our club and took us all to new levels. His desire to push the club to the top of the football world has rubbed off on everyone. All the managers and coaches who have helped me develop my game during the time I have been here. I have learnt from every one of them.”

“All the brilliant team-mates who I have been lucky enough to train and play alongside for so long. Not just their football qualities but also the friendships I have gained along the way.

“I’d also like to give a special mention to all the staff and people behind the scenes at the club who do not receive the glory but without them the club would simply not function.

“The club will move forward, and as a Chelsea man I have no doubt that with the quality of the players that are there, they will continue with the success that we have all enjoyed over the past seasons.”

It is believed that Lampard has already held talks with new Major League Soccer side New York City who have already signed Atletico Madrid David Villa

Here are the Twitter reactions:

It has been a privilege to have played with a true cfc legend and one of the most influential PL players ever pic.twitter.com/nxmE584YoQ

— Petr Cech (@PetrCech) June 2, 2014

Emotional tweet which signals the end of an era

Four years ago it was Joe Cole and Michael Ballack. Now Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole.World Cup years tend to signal the end of eras at #CFC

— Dominic Fifield (@domfifield) June 2, 2014

Thanks Roman says Lampard

Roman Abramovich saved Chelsea, says departing hero Frank Lampard: Blues legend hails billionair… http://t.co/KABPf2XCho #Chelsea #CFC

— Dan Levene (@BluesChronicle) June 2, 2014

There are an enthusiastic bunch

#Billericay Town to make £30m bid for #Cesc Fabregas? Lampard and Cole could help attract him to New Lodge!

— Billericay Town Fans (@BillericayTFans) June 2, 2014

Saturday evening goals at Stamford Bridge will be missed

#Billericay Town to make £30m bid for #Cesc Fabregas? Lampard and Cole could help attract him to New Lodge!

— Billericay Town Fans (@BillericayTFans) June 2, 2014

John Terry : “You are a real winner and an inspiration to me and everyone at Chelsea. Good luck mate.” #CFC #Lampard

— Francois Piraux (@F8Piraux) June 2, 2014

Tears maybe for Chelsea fans

I will just say Lampard #Thankyouforeverything You gave us many unforgettable memories Will always be in our hearts #CFC

— Aayush Kataria (@AK11_CFC) June 2, 2014

What a player!