Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew is delighted for Southampton striker Ricki Lambert over his England success.
Lambert was signed by Pardew while Saints manager.
Pardew said: "I didn't even become a professional until I was 26, so I am one of those people who always has hope for players because obviously, it came late to me.
"Rickie has certainly surpassed my career with what he has done, and long may that continue.
"He's got real class and technical ability, and it was only his mobility and fitness, probably, that held him back. He managed to address those and at the minute, he looks in great shape."
