SHOOT would like to wish former England international midfielder Frank Lampard many happy returns as he celebrates his 40th birthday this evening.

The Chelsea legend, who joined The Blues back in June 2001 for a reported £11m from West Ham United, went on to become the Premier League’s all-time leading goalscorer, and is fourth on the list of most appearances for the club of all-time as well.

Lampard, who left Stamford Bridge in June 2014, joined top-flight champions Manchester City as a free agent that summer, before ending his playing career at Major League Soccer outfit New York City FC.

Nowadays, the Chelsea great is providing punditry on the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia, as well as preparing for his debut season as a manager, after being appointed boss of Championship side Derby County on a three-year contract only last month.

But, at Chelsea, the legendary central midfielder netted a remarkable 211 goals in all competitions, and won 11 major honours with The Blues – three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League, oh and two FA Community Shields as well!

Focusing on his illustrious past, SHOOT is celebrating Lampard’s birthday by putting together five of his most defining moments of his Chelsea Career in Pictures. Enjoy!

Super Signing

In June 2001, Lampard joined Chelsea on a five-year contract in an £11 million deal from London neighbours West Ham United, despite reported interest from the likes of Aston Villa and Leeds United, too.

Premier League Champion

After defeating Liverpool in the 2005 League Cup final just a few months earlier, Lampard and his team mates celebrated lifting the 2004-05 Premier League title at the end of the season, Chelsea’s first top-flight title in 50 years, after finishing 12 points clear of Arsenal in second.

European Euphoria

Fast forward seven more years, and Lampard finally got his hands on the European elite crown, as Chelsea magnificently defeated FC Bayern Munich 4-3 in a penalty shootout (1-1 AET) in the 2012 UEFA Champions League final inside their opponents’ own Allianz Arena.

Record Breaker

The midfield maestro scored twice against Aston Villa in May 2013, his 202nd and 203rd goals for Chelsea to surpass Bobby Tambling’s all-time leading goalscorer landmark, whilst securing The Blues a 2-1 Premier League victory at Villa Park.

Final Farewell

After 211 goals in total, and 11 major honours, the great Lampard waved goodbye to Stamford Bridge in May 2014 on his last appearance for the club, during Chelsea’s goalless Premier League draw against Norwich City.