Travelling fans a credit to England, says Frank Lampard

The game brought an end to England’s World Cup campaign, but Lampard and his team-mates impressed as they enjoyed the best of the chances against the Group D winners.

Lampard said: “We showed a bit of character today. We have prepared right over the last few days and everyone knows how tough it has been.

“It wasn’t vintage, but we had enough chances to win the game for sure.”

The main talking point arose in the first-half when Daniel Sturridge appeared to be fouled by Oscar Duarte – a certain penalty according to former Chelsea midfielder Lampard.

“Yeah for sure - but I don’t think the ref give us much all day but that is the way it is sometimes at this level.

“I think we played some bright stuff and should have won.”

The 36-year-old, who won his 106th cap, was clearly moved at the full-time whistle as he and his team-mates saluted the travelling support.

And Lampard was quick to praise them, although he admitted he remains unsure on his England future.

“The fans were singing away despite that we’ve been knocked out.

“We are England, we expect more and they expect more – but the way they were today and throughout they are a real credit.

“It’s a shame we couldn’t do enough to take us through and give them a longer trip.”

And on his international future, he added: “I enjoyed being involved today, and I love playing for my country. I’m 36, and I’m still doing it, and if I feel like I can still offer something then I will do. But it is too soon to say.”

Frank Lampard surges forward