The Hull City boss was quick to suggest that Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard should retain the award he collected for his performances for England in 2004, but also had a good word for his club mate Joe Cole, who has had a magnificent year for Sven's Three Lions.

Lampard played in nine of England's eleven matches last season, scoring three goals all in World Cup Qualifiers.

Cole, though, was England's most capped player in 2005 having only missed one game - against Holland - and he also scored two goals in qualifiers.

"I have to go for Frank Lampard," said Taylor.

"He's scored important goals for England, and Chelsea, in big games and has been a vital part of the team."

"But, whenever you see players like Joe Cole playing the way he is playing you can only applaud him," he added.

"He's definitely got himself right and is now coming up with the end product to add to the great work he puts in all around the pitch."

England Women's striker Eniola Aluko also believes Cole should be recognised for his influence on England and says he has become one of our most improved players.

"Joe gets my vote mainly because he faced criticism from his club manager and instead of reacting got his head down and improved all aspects of his game - making him an all-round player.

"For me his is a very influential player for Chelsea and England and is sometimes the difference between them winning games 1-0 and drawing.

"That much was true against Northern Ireland at Old Trafford and Wales in Cardiff and I feel that the skilful attributes that Joe Cole has could be the difference at the World Cup.".