The Brazilian made an unexpected late switch across London to Arsenal on deadline day and there has been plenty of speculation about what prompted such a sudden move. Lampard was happy to clarify what went on behind the scenes and revealed an honest conversation with the defender prompted his decision to seek a transfer.

‘David Luiz has obviously left and gone to Arsenal,’ he told the media at Cobham. ‘We had some honest conversations over the last week because I know him well and the conclusion of that was he is gone.

‘It’s an area of the pitch where we have competition. I don’t have number ones or twos. They have to fight for that shirt. I wish him the best because he has been a big part of our history.’

Frank went on to clarify that there had been no major disagreements.

He also insisted the decision for the defender to train on his own on Wednesday had been made with preparations for our trip to Old Trafford in mind.

‘There certainly wasn’t a strike or fallout so I want to make that clear straight away,’ he continued. ‘I always expected honesty from a manager whatever the news and I think I got that back from David.

‘The day David didn’t train was a decision that I made because it was clear the way we were going. I am very happy with the squad I have got now and my focus is working on that.’

Lampard was also asked whether the decision to sell David Luiz to a direct rival was a bad move.

‘I don’t think you can always dictate where a player goes, it depends on the situation. It was close to the deadline and Arsenal wanted him so we had to make a decision as a club.

'The decision was that David moves to Arsenal and I focus on what we have got here. Of course, he is a good player and he goes to a competitor but that’s what the situation was.’