‘I want to fight these young players’ – Chelsea’s Frank Lampard inspired by competition in England squad

Frank Lampard, England

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Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard, who struggled with injury this season, has revealed that England‘s young stars are keeping him on his toes and pushing him to prove he belongs in Fabio Capello‘s side.

The 32-year-old has seen Jack Wilshere and Scott Parker put in strong performances his absence, and feels the situation is reminiscent of when he first broke into the national team set-up and eyed established names as scalps.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Lampard stated: “When I first came into the squad I looked at Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt in the midfield and thought to myself ‘I’m after your shirt,’ and the young ones are now saying the same about me.

“That’s my challenge. It drives me on to stay in the side.”

Lampard returned from injury late on the Chelsea season, finishing the campaign with 13 goals in 30 appearances, but the midfielder feels he has to fight to impress Capello and admitted that he would be crushed if he was left out of the squad and cannot imagine having to call time on his international career.

He continued: “It would matter to me if I wasn’t in the team, I’d be a liar if I said I didn’t. While I feel I can contribute I want to play.

“I want to fight these young players. My form is good again and Fabio Capello will always pick on merit.

“I can never imagine making the statement that I am retiring from England. When I was injured this season it was frustrating to watch from my armchair. Now I am back I will get the right hump if I’m not picked.”

He added: “I was gagging to get back and have enjoyed every minute of my England career.”

Understanding that his time will come to an end eventually, Lampard reflected: “Now, I am going to enjoy every minute that’s left because when I’m not picked I will hate it. I understand how it works and I take up the challenge

“I could retire or stand up and that is what I’m doing. Standing up. When it does finish I will look back with great memories. There is nothing better than success with England.”