Chelsea ace Frank Lampard says England retirement has never been in his thoughts. Now there is talk of him going all the way to the finals in Brazil, when he will be 36.

He told The Sun: "When I got injured in the summer, it was one of those where people must have wondered about me.

"But I never actually considered finishing with England. I haven't got it in me. I'm not saying I'll stay available to be picked forever because it becomes obvious at some stage - but it's not my thing.

"My dad has always been a quiet advocate of playing for your country and the fact you are a long time retired.

"So while you feel you can contribute, do it. Even in the tough times when I was getting stick, I'd speak to Dad on the phone and he was adamant I should stay in the game because we are so privileged to be here.

"I didn't talk to him about it this summer though as I knew the answer I'd have got: 'Keep going'."