Frank Lampard had no hesitation in signing a two-year contract with New York City FC to move to Major League Soccer.
The 36-year-old was sought after all over the world after leaving Chelsea at the end of last term following 13 seasons and a club record 211 goals.
The midfielder becomes the fourth player to sign for New York City FC, the MLS' 20th expansion franchise, and the second major summer signing following the arrival of David Villa from Atletico Madrid.
Despite joining a new club in a still-emerging league, Lampard insisted the move was not a gamble.
"What professional move doesn't have risk with it?" Lampard said. "It's not a risk. It's a challenge. I can be in the middle of that challenge.
"I want to make New York City a team that New Yorkers are proud of. And I will do my best to do that."
Lampard made 649 appearances for Chelsea after signing from West Ham in 2001. He has played 106 times for England, scoring 29 goals.
He signed a one-year contract extension with the Blues in May, 2013, after mulling over a move to Los Angeles Galaxy, who he will now play in opposition from next spring.
New York City FC sporting director Claudio Reyna said Lampard was "one of the greatest players over the last 15 years" and "ticked all the boxes" in terms of a signing.
Lampard, who won every club trophy on offer with Chelsea, added: "Why not choose New York City? Talking about it ticking all the boxes, personally for me this does exactly the same.
"It's a very exciting challenge for me in life terms."
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