Fabio Capello would have no problem pairing Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard together in central midfield for England at the World Cup.
With Gareth Barry's presence in South Africa dependent on recovery from an ankle injury, Capello could not have failed to be impressed by the control Gerrard brought to a patchy England performance when he was switched back into the centre during half-time of a 3-1 win over Mexico.
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"Gerrard can play in midfield with Frank Lampard but we have to wait and see which players will be fit," said Capello.
"I changed it after half-time and put Steven in the middle, where he played very well.
"He is a really good player and can play in midfield, as a number 10, in lots of different positions."
Peter Crouch scored his customary goal - his 21st, putting him joint 16th on the all-time England scoring list - and Glen Johnson found a brilliant effort to break his international drought.
However, it was returning central defender Ledley King who opened England's account, nodding home Crouch's lay-off from six yards.
"I am happy with him," said Capello.
"I decided he had to play all the game. It gave me an opportunity to see him."
King is likely to be excused Sunday's final friendly against Japan in Graz, although he has probably done enough to earn his spot in the 23-man squad Capello will unveil on June 1.
Source: PA
