• Premier League

England future to sway Lampard decision

Frank Lampard says he will discuss his club future with England boss Roy Hodgson to ensure a potential move away from Stamford Bridge will not hinder his national team chances.

Lampard has not yet been offered a contract extension by Chelsea, despite returning to goalscoring form in recent weeks.

The 34-year-old has been linked with a move to MLS outfit Los Angeles Galaxy, as well as a host of clubs throughout Europe, including Paris Saint-Germain. Hodgson has previously questioned the wisdom of such a move, and Lampard confirmed he will consult the Three Lions boss.

"Yes (England will be a big part of his decision). Whilst I am available for England I want to do my best to try and put myself in the squad," he said.

"If I am playing and in good enough form, I'd like to be included if we qualify for Brazil. That doesn't rule anything out. I've seen players get picked before playing all over the world.

"If there's ever a time, whenever it is, where there is an option of going outside Europe, I am sure Roy and I would have the conversation, whether it's before or during."

Lampard certainly does not view that conversation as being a difficult one, if and when it happens. For whilst questions might be asked over the manner in which Hodgson dealt with Rio Ferdinand's botched call-up given the Manchester United man was evidently not fit enough to accept, Lampard has found communication under the 65-year-old to be a smooth process.

"Roy has been a breath of fresh air," he said. "I know players will always wax lyrical about their current managers, that's just the nature of the beast. You can't expect them to say negatives.

"But I'm being honest talking about Roy. He's a gentleman, first and foremost. From the minute I first sat down with him at Chelsea when he came to meet a few of us there before the Euros, I found him a very personable bloke, very dedicated on the training ground, very driven, very pushed, very easy and friendly to talk to - in a good way.

"I have complete respect for him. With me, his communication has been fantastic."

Lampard is closing in on his 100th England cap, with the impending clash against San Marino to be his 95th appearance for the national team.

"One hundred caps and is a fantastic achievement," he said. "I watched Steven (Gerrard) and Ashley (Cole) do it and grew up on tales of Bobby Moore from my dad. So, if I could get into the bracket of 100 caps, I'd be very proud."

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