Frank Lampard is optimistic that Matt Grimes’ “very classy” choice to refrain from celebrating his goal against Swansea City will help quell the hostility he faced during his return to his former club.
Grimes received a cold reception on his first visit back to the Swansea.com Stadium after leaving the club, where he spent a decade, to join Coventry City in January 2025.
However, after scoring Coventry’s second goal in their convincing 3-0 victory over the Championship leaders on Saturday, the 30-year-old raised his hands in a gesture of apology.
“Many, including myself, might have celebrated after being booed, but that shows the character he has,” remarked Sky Blues manager Lampard.
“This game brings out strong emotions, so I’m sure he felt something inside, but he handled it superbly on the outside. I hope this helps put an end to the booing.”
“When he returns to play against Swansea, I trust the fans will acknowledge his actions on Saturday and can move forward.”
Grimes made 333 appearances for Swansea and served as captain for over five years.
His transfer to Coventry, who were only four points ahead of a struggling Swansea team at the time, displeased some Swansea supporters.
Grimes was booed by traveling fans during a match at Coventry in December, and he faced more jeering upon his return to Swansea.
Matt Grimes scored from distance, leading Coventry to hand Swansea their first home loss in 10 matches in the Championship. [Rex Features]
Nevertheless, the negativity subsided after Grimes scored.
He expressed to Sky Sports that his decision to not celebrate stemmed from “a lot of love for the club and the fact that many staff members I have great affection for are still there.”
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Lampard, a former England star who was once associated with Swansea during his youth, remarked that he finds it hard to grasp the hostility directed at Grimes.
“He devoted a decade to the club, pouring his heart and soul into it,” Lampard noted.
“I have a lot of fond memories of Swansea because I was here on loan long ago and appreciated my time.”
“I’m not criticizing the club, but it puzzles me why someone would attend a match just to boo Matt Grimes after all he has done for the club. People move on in life, sometimes voluntarily and other times circumstances dictate. That’s just how it goes. Hopefully, some might reconsider their actions after seeing how he handled the situation.”