Lampard blasts radio DJ for on-air snub

Frank Lampard has launched a live tirade against a radio presenter who apparently criticised his parenting.

The Chelsea footballer reportedly phoned James O'Brien's show on LBC 97.3 to defend himself against reports that he was living in a mansion while his children stayed in a flat. O'Brien suggested that any father who did that was "weak" and "scum".

His comments, which came after Lampard's split from Elen Rives, were made on the first anniversary of the death of the footballer's mum Pat, The Sun reports.

Lampard, 30, told listeners: "Every penny I earn, every yard I run on the football pitch is for my kids. Unfortunately I've split up with my girlfriend so they're now living in a temporary flat, and it's not a bad flat at all.

"I'm actually buying them a house at the moment which is of equal living standard, if not more, to mine. My kids will never ever live in inferior circumstances."

The presenter was told that he should think about what he is saying, with Lampard adding: "Next time I'll speak to you man to man, forget the radio show."

O'Brien said it was "absolutely regrettable" that the exchange happened on the anniversary of Lampard's mother's death, but refused to apologise for any of his comments.