Lampard looking to leave lasting impression
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
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England midfielder Frank Lampard has told UEFA.com that he is "excited" by the prospect of playing in a major tournament he concedes is likely to be one of his last this summer.
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Midfielder Frank Lampard does not believe the recent departure of manager Fabio Capello will adversely affect England's UEFA EURO 2012 cause and is "excited" by the prospect of playing in a major tournament he concedes will be one of his last this summer.
Lampard is hopeful of a successful international campaign with England, who open their tournament against France on 11 June before taking on Sweden four days later and then co-hosts Ukraine on 19 June.
"I'd like to give what I feel I can give when I'm playing at my best," Lampard told UEFA.com. "I'd like to be able to have a licence to try and make things happen, to try and create goals, and score goals and be part of a group. I have been in England squads in tournaments before where you feel the fans are getting excited, you are getting good results, the team is playing well and you feel you can go and win the tournament.
"Realistically, it's going to be one of my last tournaments, so I'd love to be part of an England squad that starts well and looks like we can go all the way; and then hopefully my part can be big in that, and I can help the team."
Though the Football Association (FA) is yet to appoint a successor to Capello, Lampard is not concerned that England still remain without a coach for this summer's finals. "Whoever comes in to lead us can galvanise the team," he said. "I think the important thing is that you have got the ability in the squad and I believe we have that. I don't think it makes much difference, it will only be us that can dictate what difference it makes by playing well."
To see the full interview, click on the video above.