Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has claimed that he can now admit to having respect for Frank Lampard after the Chelsea legend announced his retirement.

The ex-England international has hung up his boots at the age of 38 after claiming that now is the right time to walk away.

Lampard spent 13 years of his career playing for Chelsea, where he won 11 major trophies, including three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the Europa League and Champions League.

During his time at Stamford Bridge, the midfielder went head to head with Carragher and Liverpool numerous times, but now that both have retired, the rivalry has diminished.

After hearing the news of Lampard's retirement, the now-Sky Sports pundit tweeted: "After all those Chelsea battles & Frank Lampard now retiring, I can finally admit the respect I had for him & that he was a great player!"

Lampard also played for West Ham United, Manchester City and MLS outfit New York City in his career.