Lampard: Man Utd players used managerial changes as an excuse to slack off

Frank Lampard has claimed that Manchester United players have used the managerial changes at the club as an excuse for not trying.

Following the stability of Sir Alex Ferguson, United have frequently changed managers in recent years, with Ruben Amorim the latest to be appointed.

Chelsea legend Lampard believes that the constant uncertainty at United means that there is now a lack of identity at Old Trafford.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Lampard said: 'You talk about Klopp, Pep, Arteta, really successful managers. I think you've got to look beyond that - you mentioned Aston Villa and Brighton - they need to get the big picture right.

'When I say that I'm not taking responsibility away from the players. Players can use excuses. From the outside looking at Manchester United the last few years - the Glazers, the manager, it's the next manager, the recruitment's not right.

'When you see what looks like a lack of effort - most players really do want to do well, they do want to run but it's not reflected there - players can use that as an excuse.'

Lampard expressed his belief that Amorim is an 'exciting addition' but stressed that he needs to be given sufficient time to prove himself.

He said: 'There are many good coaches out there. I think this is a good, exciting acquisition but he needs to have the support, he needs have that time. He needs to go 'this is how I want us to be.'

'Nobody knows what Manchester United are anymore at the moment. He wants to coach, he wants to work. If they can get together and there are no excuses for the players out there then they can make those decisions easier.'

Erik ten Hag was sacked as United manager following a concerning start to the season that left the club in 13th place in the Premier League.

Ten Hag won the FA Cup and the League Cup during his time in charge but United still lacked consistency.

The likes of David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have all had spells in charge of United since Ferguson's departure in 2013.

Although United have won some silverware in that period, glory in the Premier League and the Champions League has eluded them and there is much work for the club to do if they are to reclaim their status as the dominant force in English football.

Ruud van Nistelrooy is currently in interim charge of United, who are at home to Chelsea on Sunday.

Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim will officially take charge of United on November 11.