Roy Hodgson says Frank Lampard has been "a superb representative of the English game" across an international career that spanned 15 years.
Lampard announced his Three Lions retirement on Tuesday after winning 106 caps and scoring 29 goals for his country – and England manager Hodgson was quick to celebrate one of the game's great midfielders.
He said: “Frank Lampard has been a superb representative of the English game – both as a player on the pitch and an ambassador off it.
"To reach in excess of 100 international caps is something very few professionals achieve and he is in exalted company.
"He has served the national team quite brilliantly during his 15-year international career."
“It is with regret that I accept and understand the decision he’s made”
Roy Hodgson
Lampard won the last of his caps in the 0-0 draw with Costa Rica at the 2014 World Cup – also Steven Gerrard's last match for England – and Hodgson admits the 36-year-old's decision did not come out of the blue.
He said: “I’ve been aware since discussions in Brazil that Frank was considering his England future. I spoke to him since his loan to Manchester City about the possibility of him retiring, primarily due to the fact that he’s taken on new commitments both here and abroad.
“I know it’s not a decision he’s taken lightly and, as with Steven Gerrard’s decision, I promised Frank that I would accept his choice with good grace and not try to change his mind."
Hodgson added: “It is with regret that I accept and understand the decision he’s made.
"I wish him the best of luck with Manchester City and New York City and I’d like to thank him for all the help he’s provided for me during my time as England manager.”
Club England managing director said of Lampard: "I first met Frank with U21s in 1997 and worked with the team as he became an outstanding captain under Peter Taylor and Howard Wilkinson.
"I remember his first call up v Belgium at Sunderland very well too. Frank's always been outstanding to work with. He's a brilliant ambassador and player for the England football team and we wish him well with his move to the US."
