Lamps loves competition

Frank Lampard has revealed that England's players must be in peak condition if they are to succeed under Steve McClaren's regime.

The Head Coach has enjoyed a perfect start to life in charge of England, guiding the Three Lions to wins over Greece, Andorra and Macedonia in his first three games.

But Lampard insists the players are not resting on their laurels, despite their unbeaten run under McClaren, and the Chelsea midfielder knows a dip in form could result in the Head Coach plunging into his vast array of midfield talent.

And performing on the field is not enough, the players must be tuned in the moment they meet up with the rest of the squad.

"That is one of the really good and refreshing things with Steve McClaren and his staff," he said. "From the moment you join up with the team on Tuesday afternoon, there is pressure.

"You know that you must train well, that you must be around the hotel with your mind on the game and that when the game comes you must perform at your top level."

McClaren is laden with midfielders, meaning those not selected in the starting XI are snapping at the heels of those occupying the shirts. But Lampard says competition for places can only be good for the team.

"This is England we are talking about, not some team that does not have young players pushing for places. I have always had the idea that if my level drops I could be out of the team.

"The thing that keeps the top players on top is that they keep pushing themselves."

Stay with TheFA.com - the home of the England team.