Frank Lampard believes England’s future is beginning to look brighter after many of Fabio Capello’s new selections made a big impact in Wednesday’s 2-1 friendly victory over Denmark.
Lampard was named captain for the first time in his international career as he won his 84th cap but it was relative new boys Ashley Young, Darren Bent, Jack Wilshere and Scott Parker who made a real impact in Copenhagen and gave Capello encouragement that his team is finally getting over their World Cup hangover.
England now go to Cardiff for a Euro 2012 qualifier against Wales next month and Lampard believes spirits should be high.
Lampard said: “I was very proud to lead the team out – it was very nice for me personally.
“I have had a lot of caps to get to captain the team for the first time but I am very proud and pleased it ended in a win.
“It was an important win too – with this game you will always have the qualifier in mind next month.
“We are happy to get the winning habit – it’s been a long time that we have been apart and with a slightly different team I think we have got a good momentum now.
“After going 1-0 down, we showed good character, passed the ball about and won the game.
“We have learned a lot from it. We have learned that Wilshere can come in and continue showing the composure he plays with for Arsenal; credit to him on his full debut because it isn’t easy but he is only going to get better and better now.
“On top of that Darren Bent comes in and scores early on, Ashley Young comes on and scores so I think it’s been good.”
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney who, like Lampard and Wilshere, was taken off at half-time, also praised the players who guided England to victory after Denmark, with Ajax midfielder Christian Eriksen outstanding, had made a hugely encouraging start.
“We deserved the win so we’re delighted,” he said. “We weren’t happy conceding the goal in the way we did but thankfully we came back.
“Benty did what he does, score goals, and Ashley Young scored so we’re pleased. We played better as the game went on.
“I thought Jack Wilshere did really well – he is really composed on the ball and really good to play with so I thought he did really well.
“The manager is trying to give players a chance and they are starting to take those chances.”