Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has revealed he has been fearing getting axed by England boss Fabio Capello.
Reports prior to Saturday’s win over Wales suggested Lampard would make way for the pairing of Arsenal starlet Jack Wilshere and West Ham playmaker Scott Parker.
But the 32-year-old was named alongside the pair and netted the opening goal of the game as England ran out 2-0 winners at the Millennium Stadium.
However, he did admit: “I was aware of all the talk. I tried not to let it concern me.
“It is a good squad, a strong squad and never for any minute should anyone be resting on their laurels about getting picked.
“I have been around for a long time so it wasn't a sleepless night but obviously I want to play and contribute. So I tried to work hard in training and give my best all the time.”
And Lampard, who has been troubled by injury this season, added: “I think I am coming back to my best form after a difficult season.
“I have missed half of it and never really had that kind of break before.
“But in the last few games for Chelsea I have started to feel as fit as I had beforehand.
“That's a lovely feeling to have back because I was out a long time and that is frustrating. But now, I'm feeling really good.
“When you get back, you have to get used to the fact that you might have certain niggles after having such a bad injury.
“I'm getting to the other side of them now and feeling like I don't go into games worrying about the groin or anything else. I just worry about trying to play.”