England coach Roy Hodgson hailed the performance of Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard in victory over Italy.

Hodgson hailed the influence of midfield duo Lampard and Michael Carrick following England's 2-1 win over Italy in Berne.

Making his first international appearance since May 2010, Carrick produced a quietly effective performance alongside Lampard who, at 34, is aiming to defy the ageing process by featuring in the 2014 World Cup.

"They were the outstanding players," Hodgson said. "You don't become a really good player overnight. You have to play an awful lot of football at the highest level.

"They've done that internationally and for two very important club sides.

"The quality of their play was very good and it was good for the youngsters to have those around them showing that composure on the ball."