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Freedom Kicks are still a little sleepy, but coming to you on this Thursday morning. So get the coffee ready, and go back to bed if you need to after reading these need-to-know soccer links.
Did New York City mischaracterize Lampard's contract? - Hudson River Blue: If you missed the Twitter explosion last night, it seems as though Frank Lampard never actually signed a contract with Major League Soccer, so who knows what they were actually announcing last summer. Regardless, he will stay with Manchester City until the end of the Premier League season.
Lampard will stay with Manchester City through May; loan may never have existed - Empire of Soccer: More Frank Lampard.
Bloopers: D.C. United 2014 | D.C. United: Blooper reel from D.C. United videos past.
American Exports: Mix Diskerud narrows shortlist to four clubs, says Rosenborg are still in running | MLSsoccer.com: The Bachelor, Mix Diskerud edition
Outsports male athlete of the year: Robbie Rogers - Outsports: An obvious choice, but congrats to Robbie Rogers and the year that he has had.
Lion Profiles: Lewis Neal - The Mane Land: LEWIS NEAL :(
Veterans Excited For USL PRO's Future: Some quotes from Leigh Cowlishaw on the relationship between MLS and USL PRO.
That's all have. What have you been up to, I haven't talked to you this entire year!