Everton boss Frank Lampard admits he tried to sign England midfield pair Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice for Chelsea.

The duo are expected to be part of the England line-up for much of the World Cup – with Mason Mount making up the midfield trio.

Lampard is a big fan of Borussia Dortmund's highly-rated youngster Bellingham.

He told KEEPUP: "He's crucial for England - an outstanding talent.

“He's more experienced and talented than his years show - to do what he's done at the top level already.

“I tried to sign him when I was at Chelsea actually – unfortunately it didn't happen but I wanted to sign him and Declan Rice (West Ham).

"That'll be England's midfield probably during this tournament.

“There's a lot of expectation so we'll have to be a bit steady with him but the way he's played and performed, he has a real maturity about him.

“Not much will faze him so I expect him to go and have a good tournament."