Bafana Bafana and SuperSport United midfielder Dean Furman has ruled out returning to Premier League outfit Chelsea.

The 31-year-old, who spent three years at Premier League giants Chelsea’s youth academy, admits that he does not see himself rejoining the Blues.

‘Unfortunately, in terms of rejoining Chelsea that ship has long sailed,’ Furman told Sport24.

‘However, as a Chelsea fan Frank Lampard is my hero. I am very excited to see him as the coach and what he does with the team.

‘I don’t think being a top player necessarily guarantees you becoming a successful manager, but I think Lampard can be successful.

‘I know how hard he worked as a player and watched him training at times and saw him doing extras by himself.’

Furman went on to say that he backs the new Chelsea manager to bring the glory days back to Stamford Bridge.

‘It was a huge lesson for me in my career in terms of how to be a top player. I don’t think there has ever been a harder-working player than him, so I’m pretty sure he will take that into his managerial career,’ he added.

‘After a good season at Derby, I’m sure he will prove a great success at Chelsea.’

SuperSport United will take on Tshwane rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in their Absa Premiership opener at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on 3 August, with kick-off set for 3pm.