Ex-Chelsea manager Frank Lampard returned to soccer on Thursday when he was hired to coach Coventry City in the second division. The 46-year-old Lampard signed a 2 1/2-year contract. Lampard would bring a “clear understanding of exactly what is needed to succeed at the very top level,” Coventry owner Doug King said.

Frank Lampard has been appointed as manager of Championship side Coventry City, the club confirmed on Thursday.

Lampard’s last job was an interim role at Chelsea last year but he returns to the touchline at the Championship club