Frank Lampard could see managerial return to Burnley scuppered by former Premier League rival

CRAIG BELLAMY has major support inside Burnley to be the relegated club’s next boss.

Coach Bellamy decided against following Vincent Kompany to Bayern Munich and is willing to take his place.

The Welshman, 44, has been appointed acting head coach in the short term — assisted by Mike Jackson.

Owner Alan Pace prefers a “big name” manager and is keen on Frank Lampard and Scott Parker.

But there is a lobby for Bellamy to get the post full-time.

He has been at Burnley since 2022 after following Kompany to Turf Moor.

The pair previously worked together at Belgian side Anderlecht.

And Bellamy knows the Clarets’ structure inside-out.

It remains to be seen if Pace keeps the faith after informing fans he is “actively working” on landing a new permanent manager.

Lampard is admired after his work at Chelsea and Everton.

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

The former England midfielder’s last role saw him return to Stamford Bridge a year ago as interim boss.

Lamps was tasked with picking up the pieces left by Graham Potter’s departure.

But he won just one of 11 matches as Chelsea’s misfit squad finished 12^th.

As for Parker, he made his bones as Fulham manager before moving on with Bournemouth.

His last job came in Belgium with Club Brugge.

And it could give him the advantage when it comes to dealing with Burnley’s squad, which currently boasts four Belgians and several others signed from the country’s top flight division.