Frank Lampard has admitted that he never expected to "enjoy" the challenges of playing for Manchester City as much as he has during his six-month loan stint.

The midfielder, who left Chelsea following a 13-year spell in the summer, joined the Premier League champions after signing for newly-formed MLS franchise New York City FC.

"I didn't know what to expect and it's all been a bit of a whirlwind," the Daily Star quotes Lampard as saying. "I wanted to prove that I wasn't here just to tick over and show the manager I was worthwhile bringing in.

"I've really enjoyed all those challenges but I didn't expect to enjoy them quite as much as I have."

Lampard is expected to join New York City for pre-season training in January.