As PR blunders go it was hardly on the scale of Gerald Ratner's infamous quip that one of his jewellery company's products was 'c***'. But Manchester City's decision to extend Frank Lampard's contract to the end of the season, rather than allowing him to move as planned to sister club New York City, left many questioning whether the powers-that-be in Abu Dhabi believed their new American operation was an inferior product. Some in the Big Apple, who had already shelled out for season tickets, demanded refunds. In the home of Broadway, others rather dramatically branded it a betrayal. Frank Lampard (left) closes down James Morrison during Manchester City's 3-0 win over West Brom . Lampard reacts after he hit the post during his side's victory over the Baggies at the Etihad on Saturday . It was not, and the reality is that Spain legend David Villa was always a bigger draw in a city with a huge Hispanic population. Regardless, some may now be questioning the logic of keeping Lampard in Manchester, rather than Manhattan, after the media storm the decision triggered. Since January 1, when the former Chelsea man was expected to cross the Atlantic, City have encountered choppy waters. Knocked out the FA Cup they are now six points behind Lampard's former club, out of the FA Cup and out of the Champions League. Not that he can be blamed for that. Lampard has made 30 appearances for City this season, but many of those have been cameos from the bench . At 36, Lampard was never intended to be a regular starter, but given the ferocity of the response to his extended stay, City fans may have expected more. Manuel Pellegrini has given the former England man just 190 out of 990 Premier League minutes following the turn of the year. In that period he has scored once, in a 3-2 victory over Sunderland on New Year's Day. Should City stage a miraculous defence of their title, that may prove key but it is unlikely. Even with Yaya Toure absent in Africa and his remaining midfielders looking like they were operating on separate Continents the Chilean was reluctant to turn to a man who has won more Premier League trophies than the club he plays for. Former Spain and Barcelona star David Villa (centre) in action for New York City . Lampard, belatedly, did start Saturday's 3-0 stroll over West Brom. He was steady and kept things ticking over before being substituted with the game long won. As Pellegrini pointed out after that canter, the season is not over and there are still 24 points to play for as they head into the final furlong. However, if the decision to keep Lampard here is to be justified he must turn more often to his thoroughbred.
Frank Lampard signed for New York City before delaying his MLS arrival to finish the Premier League season playing for Manchester City . City have been knocked out of the FA Cup and are now six points Premier League leaders Chelsea . Lampard started in City's recent 3-0 victory against West Brom . CLICK HERE for all the latest Manchester City news .