Lamps: I'm no bit-part player

Lampard produced his best ever performance for his country as he and Steven Gerrard pushed England forward after the Slovakians had taken a shock early lead.

It was the first time that he had completed an entire 90 minutes for England, nearly four years after making his debut against Belgium in Sunderland's Stadium of Light.

It was also the first time that Lampard had played in a competitive fixture as all of his previous 10 appearances came in friendly matches.

Indeed 'Lamps' almost capped off an excellent display by scoring a goal soon after Owen had brought England level. He turned home Southgate's shot from three yards out and though it seemed that there were two Slovakian players in front of him, he was flagged for offside.

Now the former Under 21 captain believes he needs to cement his place in Sven's side as the 2004 European Championships in Portugal get closer.

"I can definitely sit on the beach next week and be happy with myself. I've had a good season and put myself in with a good shout now with England.

"I've been in the starting line-up, which is something I've always wanted, and I've felt confident I could achieve that this year and do something for England. I hope this is just the start for me.

"Wednesday went well and the only disappointing thing was having the goal disallowed because I knew I was onside when I put the ball in the net.

"I don't know how the linesman came to stick his flag up because he had a great view but luckily Michael Owen popped up with the winner."

Next season will also see Frank grace the Champions League for the first time as his club narrowly pipped Liverpool to the final spot in the money-spinning competition.

Lampard said: "I hope the days of of being regarded as a bit-part player are over. I want to really take hold of a position in the team, stay in there and be influential."

"I always thought I could do it but actually getting in there and producing is a different thing. I've gone in there and done that.

"Have I done enough to be in when everyone is fit? There are some good players to come back but I think I have given myself a good shout.

"Playing Champions League football will also benefit me, as the fact you will be playing in a top-class competitive every week is where we all want to be.

"It's no good if I flit in and out with England from now on. If I start well next season well, then I want to push on and play for England in the European Championships and do well."

Frank Lampard 

Nationality: English
Place of Birth: Romford, England
Date of Birth: 21 June 1978
Weight: 14 00
Height: 6' 0''
Club: Chelsea
Position: Midfielder

England v Slovakia: Match Centre