Frank Lampard 'on shortlist for surprise international manager's job'

Canada are currently searching for a permanent successor to John Herdman, who stepped down from his role as Canada boss last year.

Herdman had been in the post for over five years, before he opted to swap the national team hotseat for the managerial role at MLS club Toronto FC.

Mauro Biello was subsequently placed in interim charge of the national side, overseeing two wins and two defeats in four matches.

Last month, Biello recently guided Canada to a 2-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago to secure their spot at this summer's Copa America.

However, with Canada still searching for a permanent manager, The Telegraph are reporting that they are considering Lampard as a potential candidate.

The report claims that Lampard has been placed on a shortlist, with the Canadian football federation keen to hold talks with the former Everton manager.

While it is unclear whether Lampard would be interested in the role, the job would come with the chance to lead Canada into the 2026 World Cup.

As one of the co-hosts of the tournament, Canada will automatically qualify for the tournament, ensuring that they will have the chance to make just their third appearance at a World Cup finals.

Lampard's tricky managerial journey

Lampard is said to be keen to return to the dugout, but is willing to remain patient and wait for the right opportunity to present itself.

The 45-year-old led Derby County to the Championship playoffs in his first managerial job, before he took over the reins at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2019.

Lampard led Chelsea to a top-four finish and an FA Cup final in his first season in charge, but he was ultimately removed from his post in January of the following season.

The former England international then secured safety in his first six months as Everton boss, before he was sacked in January 2023 following an eight-game winless league run.

Lampard subsequently experienced a difficult time as Chelsea's interim boss, winning one of his 11 games in the closing stages of last season.