Frank Lampard insists he took being named on the bench for England against Bulgaria in his stride, saying he “didn’t know what all the fuss was about”.
The Chelsea star was a substitute for the win on Friday, causing much debate over his international future, but was back in the starting line-up for the defeat of Wales at Wembley on Tuesday.
The midfielder says he has been around long enough now to be able to cope with not being picked for every game and doesn’t expect to be an automatic choice for England, who are now 8/1 to win Euro 2012 with bookmaker, but insists he can still perform at the highest level.
“It is much easier to take when you get that little bit more mature about things,” said the 33-year-old.
“I’ve never expected to play for England, I’m very proud to play for England, and if your form is good, the manager will pick you.
“I want to be a big part of the squad. It’s simple and sometimes I don’t know what the fuss was all about this week.”
