'A massive lift'
Wednesday, 21 November, 2007
Frank Lampard says he and his team-mates can't wait to taste the atmosphere at Wembley on Wednesday.
England v Croatia
UEFA European Championship Qualifier
8pm, Wednesday 21 November 2007
Wembley Stadium
Live on BBC
Frank Lampard believes there will be an incredible atmosphere at Wembley tonight as England prepare to face Croatia with a place at the Euro 2008 Finals at stake.
The Chelsea midfielder is relishing the prospect of playing in a match that means so much to the nation and so much to the players taking part.
The Three Lions need just a point to achieve their aim of qualifying for Euro 2008 - and the reception when they walk out beneath Wembley’s giant arch could blow the roof off the famous stadium.
“It’s going to be a great night," said Lampard.
"We believe we can beat Croatia and there will be no better atmosphere in football. That will be a massive lift to the players.
“We know we have got the ability in the team to do it. I think we have a history since I’ve been involved in the squad that there’s always been a big game that qualification hinges on. And we’ve managed to do it – so hopefully we’ll manage to do it again.”
Lampard believes if England can qualify they could go on to shine at the Euro 2008 finals in Austria and Switzerland next summer.
He added: “There have been times where England have qualified very well for championships and then gone and got knocked out in the early stages.
“Maybe this is a time where we will sneak through and go further when we get to the finals. We have the players and the belief to do it.”