Report: Frank Lampard remains sidelined ahead of Chicago Fire clash

If fans of New York City FC were hoping to see Frank Lampard take the field against the Chicago Fire at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, they'll have to wait a little while longer.

The former Chelsea man has not recovered in time from a calf problem that has kept him out of the Pidgeons' lineup for the opening five games of the 2016 season. Now, he'll miss game No. 6, too.

"He's not going to be fit for the weekend," NYCFC head coach Patrick Vieira said, according to Soccer By Ives. "I think we’re a couple of days away from his comeback, so he’s not going to be fit for this weekend."

NYCFC, currently fifth in the Eastern Conference, only has one win this season. Striker David Villa and midfield maestro Andrea Pirlo remain regulars in Vieira's starting XI; and while Lampard's absence has been noticed off the field, Tommy McNamara has certainly taken over creative duties in midfield.

Still, Vieira is sympathetic to Lampard as he continues to struggle with injuries.

"When you're talking about a player of his caliber, it's always good and better to have him to be available to play games," Vieira said. "I'm feeling for him because he's a real champion and a true champion and he's going through a difficult period because, of course, he wants to be on the field, he wants to train, and he wants to help the team."

"He's going through a difficult period because he's missed training and it's not easy for him."