CHELSEA have given midfielder Frank Lampard compassionate leave and told him to take as long as he needs after the death of his mother on Thursday.

The England man will miss today's Premier League match against Manchester United and is unlikely to return for Wednesday's Champions League semi-final, second leg against Liverpool, reported The Times.

Pat Lampard, 58, died of pneumonia after being hospitalised 10 days earlier.

In a statement released by his agent, Steve Kutner,the 29-year-old player expressed gratitude for the support provided by Chelsea, particularly head coach Avram Grant, over the 'terribly traumatic period for him and his family'.

But he has given no thought to a return date and will spend the next few days mourning with his family.

'Everybody at Chelsea Football Club is absolutely devastated to hear the tragic news of the passing away of Pat Lampard, Frank's mother,' a club statement read.

'Pat was a very familiar face to many people at Chelsea FC. Her unswerving support for her son's career was evident at virtually every game that Frank participated in.

'Regardless of where it was being played, she would always be there to watch him with Frank's dad. Pat will be deeply missed by everyone at Chelsea. The club will be offering all the support it can to Frank and his family at this time.'

Lampard had missed recent Premier League games against Wigan and Everton to be at his mother's bedside.

When her condition improved, he returned for Tuesday night's Champions League semi-final first-leg 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield.

Lampard went back to be at her bedside after the match, but her health worsened suddenly.

ASSOCIATED PRESS, REUTERS