Croatia v England Match Programme || Lamps: More Room To Shine

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CROATIA v ENGLAND - LAMPS - MORE ROOM TO SHINE

England midfielder Frank Lampard insisted "the best is still to come" as he prepares to win his 50th cap for his country in Wednesday's European Championship qualifier with Croatia.

The Chelsea midfielder will reach the half-century milestone in the Maksimir Stadium, seven years after making his debut against Belgium at The Stadium Of Light.

And he will be hoping to end his recent poor run of form against a side he has fond memories of after scoring his first England goal at the hands of Croatia in 2003 and another in the Euro 2004 finals in Portugal.

Lampard said: "I hope the best is still to come because that's how I've always approached things.

"I turned 28 in June and I feel there is more to come from me. I've always worked that way.

"Every summer I go away and whatever I've done, even after the last couple of years and the success I've had, I'll always look at what I can get better at it and what I can improve upon.

"You have to look at things that way otherwise the end is coming for you. You must always try and work to improve. That goes for me - and the England team."

Lampard admitted: "The first cap was a bit strange for me.

"It didn't sink in and it was set out on its own. I didn't play again for a while. It doesn't stand out in much of a positive way.

"The France game in Euro 2004 was my first taste of a big competition and I'll never forget the atmosphere going to the ground and during the game although it was a big disappointment losing at the end after leading for so long.

"That one game sticks out in my head for realising what playing at the top, top level for England is all about."

Lampard has endured considerable criticism for his recent performances which included a barren World Cup in terms of goals but views it in a philosophical manner.

He said: "When someone says something you don't agree with, it is a normal reaction not to agree with it but playing for England is something you have to take on your shoulders and the criticism that goes with it.

"I knew that from the outset and you learn that very quickly along the way.

" I think it is very important with criticism that you don't get overtaken by it. You have to be level-headed and concentrate on doing your job."

Lampard is too modest to show off his collection of caps and trophies and admits they are only brought out for viewing on special occasions.

He said: "I wouldn't have them on show. I have put them away in a very safe place. I'll get them out one day to show the kids and the grand kids.

"I just don't like the idea of someone coming around to the house and seeing my caps in their face all the time. It's not just my type of thing."

A goal against Croatia from Lampard would be particularly beneficial given the fact England are without the injured Owen Hargreaves and Joe Cole and the suspended Steven Gerrard of their midfield stars.

Lampard said: "You do find yourself having good records against certain teams and not so good against others and it is a nice boost to go into this match knowing you've scored a few goals against your opponents.

"But it doesn't mean much on the night. I'll just try and play as well as I can and try and hopefully contribute as much as in those other games with Croatia."

By Bettingzone.co.uk
Used with permission.

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