It's payback time: Lampard targets Wembley revenge against Croatia

07 September 2009 17:57
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard feels the memories of England's 3-2 loss to Croatia at Wembley which saw them miss out on Euro 2008 will motivate the players. 'It was a very low point for all of us, individually and as a group. We won't forget that and will use it as a positive,' he said. 'We need to keep cool heads, keep calm, but also show passion and desire to win the game. There certainly won't be tackles anyone is pulling out of.' England have won all seven of their qualifiers going into Wednesday's clash, but a place in South Africa next summer is not yet assured. 'It's been fantastic how we've gone about it so far, the results we've got home and away,' Lampard added.  'We need to finish the job, the sooner the better. 'The aim is to qualify - simple as that. If it doesn't happen on Wednesday night we have to make it happen the next time.' The 31-year-old also believes there is no reason to worry too much about England's defence. 'I think in qualifying the defending has been pretty good. We've gone to Croatia and Belarus and done pretty well,' he said. Croatia will be missing midfielder Luka Modric through injury and defender Vedran Corluka through suspension against England, but Lampard believes Slaven Bilic's men will still be a force to be reckoned with. 'I think they're two very good players,' he said. 'Modric particularly is the playmaker if the team. I know what a good player he is from playing against him against Croatia and Tottenham. 'Croatia will miss them, but Slaven Bilic has said he has worked on the strength of the team.'

Source: Daily_Mail