VIDEO: Frank happy with 'exciting squad'
Tuesday, 14 August, 2012
Captain Frank Lampard speaks of his delight at being back amongst young squad.
England midfielder Frank Lampard has revealed his agony at missing out on Euro 2012 but says he is honoured to captain the side which is set to face Italy in Berne on Wednesday.
The Chelsea star is now fully fit and will lead out a young and aspiring Three Lions side, several of whom were in action for Team GB at the Olympics.
"I watched the Euros and supported the lads and was disappointed, but I think there were a lot of positives in the way the team played and the way they held themselves," he said.
"There was a lot of hunger and desire in the team and I am glad to be back part of it.
"I think it is an exciting squad. I think the manager has picked a very intelligent squad in the way he has rested players that have played 60 games and the Euros.
"He has brought in some youngsters to show them the feel of the squad and what it is like travelling and playing with England, so it is great experience for those lads and I am looking forward to the game."
Lampard is now nearing his 100th cap and is still hungry to perform at the highest level for his country.
"I would love to (make the 100 mark), it would be a very proud milestone to reach," he added. "There have been great players that have done it, you have to be great to achieve that. But it is not something that is on my agenda now.
"It is very much a game-by-game thing for me now and I would not want to be hanging around to try and make 100 caps for the wrong reasons and I am sure I will get no favours from the Manager, and quite rightly so.
"If I can perform at the right level for the next season and the season after that, then I will see where it takes me but it is not a big mark that I am purposely trying to get to."