FIFA says it will not speculate about possible punishments for Uruguay striker Luis Suarez who is being investigated for apparently biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini.
The Liverpool forward and Uruguay's football association have until 9pm tonight to respond to the world ruling body after it opened disciplinary proceedings.
Suarez said after the 1-0 victory, which took the South Americans into the World Cup's last 16, that the incident was not important but he faces a maximum 24-game or two-year ban if found guilty.
"Proceedings are ongoing and we are still at the early stages," said FIFA spokeswoman Delia Fischer.
"We cannot speak about what could potentially happen. This is in the hands of the Disciplinary Committee.
"We will get an update to you later today or tomorrow or whenever they take their decision."
The longest ban in World Cup history was eight games for Italy's Mauro Tassotti for breaking Spain's Luis Enrique's nose in 1994 with an elbow.
Suarez has twice been banned for biting opponents - for 10 matches in 2013 for his clash with Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic and in 2010 he was given a seven-game ban while playing for Ajax for sinking his teeth into PSV Eindhoven's Otman Bakkal.
FIFA's disciplinary code allows action to be taken retrospectively via video evidence even if the incident has been seen by the referee.
Chiellini tried to show referee Marco Rodriguez the mark but no action was taken, and he believes the authorities must now look back at what happened and punish Suarez.
The defender told Sky Italia: “Suarez has bitten me and the referee saw it, but then there is the need to have the courage to take decisions.
“We will see if there is the courage to utilise the TV images to ban him.”
Uruguay manager Oscar Tabarez insisted he had not seen the incident but claimed that Suarez "is the target of certain sections of the press".
"I would like to see it first," said Tabarez. "If it happened then I think the referee had to have seen it first. I didn't see the incident and I don't want anyone to speak for me about it.
"Suarez, in addition to errors that he may have made, is a target for certain sections of the media."
FIFA says it will not speculate about possible punishments for Uruguay striker Luis Suarez who is being investigated for apparently biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini.
The Liverpool forward and Uruguay's football association have until 9pm tonight to respond to the world ruling body after it opened disciplinary proceedings.
Suarez said after the 1-0 victory, which took the South Americans into the World Cup's last 16, that the incident was not important but he faces a maximum 24-game or two-year ban if found guilty.
"Proceedings are ongoing and we are still at the early stages," said FIFA spokeswoman Delia Fischer.
"We cannot speak about what could potentially happen. This is in the hands of the Disciplinary Committee.
"We will get an update to you later today or tomorrow or whenever they take their decision."
The longest ban in World Cup history was eight games for Italy's Mauro Tassotti for breaking Spain's Luis Enrique's nose in 1994 with an elbow.
Suarez has twice been banned for biting opponents - for 10 matches in 2013 for his clash with Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic and in 2010 he was given a seven-game ban while playing for Ajax for sinking his teeth into PSV Eindhoven's Otman Bakkal.
FIFA's disciplinary code allows action to be taken retrospectively via video evidence even if the incident has been seen by the referee.
Chiellini tried to show referee Marco Rodriguez the mark but no action was taken, and he believes the authorities must now look back at what happened and punish Suarez.
The defender told Sky Italia: “Suarez has bitten me and the referee saw it, but then there is the need to have the courage to take decisions.
“We will see if there is the courage to utilise the TV images to ban him.”
Uruguay manager Oscar Tabarez insisted he had not seen the incident but claimed that Suarez "is the target of certain sections of the press".
"I would like to see it first," said Tabarez. "If it happened then I think the referee had to have seen it first. I didn't see the incident and I don't want anyone to speak for me about it.
"Suarez, in addition to errors that he may have made, is a target for certain sections of the media."
We bring you the best of today’s Liverpool transfer rumours, with speculation mounting regarding a move for Chile and Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez.
Ignoring the obvious, the beginning of this week has been an interesting one for Liverpool, with many ins and outs linked already.
Despite the World Cup still blazing in full glory, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers reportedly looks to be utilising his precious down time to make significant moves in the transfer market.
Most interestingly, is today’s developing link with current World Cup star with Chile, Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez.
The 25-year-old has been linked with the club many times in recent weeks, but speaking this morning to Irish radio station NewsTalk, former Liverpool defender and manager Phil Thompson described the deal as “done.”
“Even just yesterday I had things from people, newspaper guys with their ear very close to the ground at Liverpool, saying that the Sanchez deal is actually done.”
Whilst it is questionable that Thompson or his unspecific sources are the most reputable, a move for the Chilean forward would somewhat placate any worries regarding the future of Luis Suarez.
According to Squawka, Sanchez has scored one and made another in three World Cup appearances so far as Chile continue underline their status as one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
Jorge Sampaoli’s side play a familiar brand of high pressing football that should see Sanchez slot straightforwardly into Rodger’s system at Liverpool.
Elsewhere, conflicting reports have arisen over the past two days regarding a move for Atletico Madrid defender Toby Alderweireld.
Sky Sport Italia reporter Fabrizio Romano tweeted last night linking the Belgian centre-back with a move to Anfield this summer.
However, this morning, Russian journalist Artur Petrosyan appeared to quash these rumours.
A move for the 25-year-old would make sense, however, as Rodgers is likely interested in a right-sided centre-back, seen with the club’s reported interest in Dejan Lovren.
Alderweireld, who moved from Ajax to the Champions League finalists last summer, featured sparingly throughout 2013/14, making only 12 league appearances according to WhoScored.com.
Compared to current first choice central defender Martin Skrtel, Alderweireld only really has the upper hand when it comes to tackling, making 2.3 per game on average compared to the Slovak’s 1.4.
Overall, Skrtel is a more well-rounded defender more suited to Rodgers’ system, although Alderweireld’s age and versatility—also able to play at right-back—may work in the Belgian’s favour.
In terms of outgoings, the most significant report this morning involves Spanish attacking midfielder, Luis Alberto , who is reportedly close to a loan move to La Liga side Malaga.
The Liverpool Echo suggest that the midfielder, who made only two starts last season, will spend the 2014/15 season with the Spanish side.
Malaga have apparently “offered a £1million loan fee,” and “will also pay all the 21-year-old’s wages after promising him the first-team football which was lacking during his first campaign with the Reds.”
The move makes sense for all parties, a move similar to that of Suso at Almeria last season, as Alberto will gain valuable experience whilst remaining on the books at Anfield.
If the midfielder impresses at the La Liga side, a return to the Reds the following season may be beneficial to Rodgers.
The publication continues to link Ivorian defender Kolo Toure with a move to Turkish side Trabzonspor.
The 33-year-old is reportedly “considering his options” after falling out of favour under Rodgers, and the club “won’t stand in his way if he decides he wants to move.”
Furthermore, moves for Uruguayan World Cup defender Sebastian Coates—“expected to be sold”—and Portuguese youngster Tiago Ilori —“likely to be loaned out again”—are also on the cards.
Do these reported moves make sense for Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below.
We bring you the best of today’s Liverpool transfer rumours, with speculation mounting regarding a move for Chile and Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez.
Ignoring the obvious, the beginning of this week has been an interesting one for Liverpool, with many ins and outs linked already.
Despite the World Cup still blazing in full glory, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers reportedly looks to be utilising his precious down time to make significant moves in the transfer market.
Most interestingly, is today’s developing link with current World Cup star with Chile, Barcelona’s Alexis Sanchez.
The 25-year-old has been linked with the club many times in recent weeks, but speaking this morning to Irish radio station NewsTalk, former Liverpool defender and manager Phil Thompson described the deal as “done.”
“Even just yesterday I had things from people, newspaper guys with their ear very close to the ground at Liverpool, saying that the Sanchez deal is actually done.”
Whilst it is questionable that Thompson or his unspecific sources are the most reputable, a move for the Chilean forward would somewhat placate any worries regarding the future of Luis Suarez.
According to Squawka, Sanchez has scored one and made another in three World Cup appearances so far as Chile continue underline their status as one of the tournament’s surprise packages.
Jorge Sampaoli’s side play a familiar brand of high pressing football that should see Sanchez slot straightforwardly into Rodger’s system at Liverpool.
Elsewhere, conflicting reports have arisen over the past two days regarding a move for Atletico Madrid defender Toby Alderweireld.
Sky Sport Italia reporter Fabrizio Romano tweeted last night linking the Belgian centre-back with a move to Anfield this summer.
However, this morning, Russian journalist Artur Petrosyan appeared to quash these rumours.
A move for the 25-year-old would make sense, however, as Rodgers is likely interested in a right-sided centre-back, seen with the club’s reported interest in Dejan Lovren.
Alderweireld, who moved from Ajax to the Champions League finalists last summer, featured sparingly throughout 2013/14, making only 12 league appearances according to WhoScored.com.
Compared to current first choice central defender Martin Skrtel, Alderweireld only really has the upper hand when it comes to tackling, making 2.3 per game on average compared to the Slovak’s 1.4.
Overall, Skrtel is a more well-rounded defender more suited to Rodgers’ system, although Alderweireld’s age and versatility—also able to play at right-back—may work in the Belgian’s favour.
In terms of outgoings, the most significant report this morning involves Spanish attacking midfielder, Luis Alberto , who is reportedly close to a loan move to La Liga side Malaga.
The Liverpool Echo suggest that the midfielder, who made only two starts last season, will spend the 2014/15 season with the Spanish side.
Malaga have apparently “offered a £1million loan fee,” and “will also pay all the 21-year-old’s wages after promising him the first-team football which was lacking during his first campaign with the Reds.”
The move makes sense for all parties, a move similar to that of Suso at Almeria last season, as Alberto will gain valuable experience whilst remaining on the books at Anfield.
If the midfielder impresses at the La Liga side, a return to the Reds the following season may be beneficial to Rodgers.
The publication continues to link Ivorian defender Kolo Toure with a move to Turkish side Trabzonspor.
The 33-year-old is reportedly “considering his options” after falling out of favour under Rodgers, and the club “won’t stand in his way if he decides he wants to move.”
Furthermore, moves for Uruguayan World Cup defender Sebastian Coates—“expected to be sold”—and Portuguese youngster Tiago Ilori —“likely to be loaned out again”—are also on the cards.
Do these reported moves make sense for Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be feeling “choked” after the latest biting controversy to engulf striker Luis Suarez, according to former England midfielder Ray Wilkins.
Suarez has seen disciplinary proceedings initiated against him by FIFA after he appeared to bite Giorgio Chiellini in Uruguay’s 1-0 win against Italy in Natal on Tuesday.
Liverpool now face an anxious wait over potential FIFA sanctions against Suarez as world football’s governing body has the power to impose a blanket ban on the Uruguayan covering football both at club level at internationally.
And Wilkins believes Rodgers and Liverpool have every right to feel let down by their star striker after standing by the 26-year-old when he bit Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic at Anfield last year.
“The people I really feel sorry for are the Brendan Rodgers’ of this world and Liverpool Football Club,” Wilkins told Sky Sports News.
“I would have thought he is absolutely choked because of what he did for him last year. He put himself on the line for him as well, as did Liverpool Football Club when he bit into (Branislav) Ivanovic of Chelsea.
“Liverpool have really put themselves out for him. What they did for him last year was nothing short of fantastic.”
Suarez has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent days and Wilkins believes Rodgers faces a difficult task deciding whether or not to keep the former Ajax striker at the club.
“I think from Brendan’s point of view it’s very difficult because he has got one of the best strikers in world football actually playing in his team,” Wilkins said.
“So it’s always difficult for the manager in (deciding) which way to go but enough must become enough at some stage.
“It will be very interesting to see which way they decide to go because if they are going to sell him they have to sell him now.
“There are no two ways about it and recoup as much money as they possibly can because the capital outlay to buy a player of Suarez’s calibre is going to be immense.
“It would be another blow for Brendan in another aspect in the fact that with Suarez at the club Brendan can attract the big players in because he is a top quality footballer.
“With the loss of Suarez will other players really want to comer? Would Liverpool without Suarez finished as strongly as they did last season? No they wouldn’t have done.”
Wilkins added: “It’s unacceptable behaviour and it should never happen on a football field so he needs to be dealt with, and dealt with severely.”
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be feeling “choked” after the latest biting controversy to engulf striker Luis Suarez, according to former England midfielder Ray Wilkins.
Suarez has seen disciplinary proceedings initiated against him by FIFA after he appeared to bite Giorgio Chiellini in Uruguay’s 1-0 win against Italy in Natal on Tuesday.
Liverpool now face an anxious wait over potential FIFA sanctions against Suarez as world football’s governing body has the power to impose a blanket ban on the Uruguayan covering football both at club level at internationally.
And Wilkins believes Rodgers and Liverpool have every right to feel let down by their star striker after standing by the 26-year-old when he bit Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic at Anfield last year.
“The people I really feel sorry for are the Brendan Rodgers’ of this world and Liverpool Football Club,” Wilkins told Sky Sports News.
“I would have thought he is absolutely choked because of what he did for him last year. He put himself on the line for him as well, as did Liverpool Football Club when he bit into (Branislav) Ivanovic of Chelsea.
“Liverpool have really put themselves out for him. What they did for him last year was nothing short of fantastic.”
Suarez has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent days and Wilkins believes Rodgers faces a difficult task deciding whether or not to keep the former Ajax striker at the club.
“I think from Brendan’s point of view it’s very difficult because he has got one of the best strikers in world football actually playing in his team,” Wilkins said.
“So it’s always difficult for the manager in (deciding) which way to go but enough must become enough at some stage.
“It will be very interesting to see which way they decide to go because if they are going to sell him they have to sell him now.
“There are no two ways about it and recoup as much money as they possibly can because the capital outlay to buy a player of Suarez’s calibre is going to be immense.
“It would be another blow for Brendan in another aspect in the fact that with Suarez at the club Brendan can attract the big players in because he is a top quality footballer.
“With the loss of Suarez will other players really want to comer? Would Liverpool without Suarez finished as strongly as they did last season? No they wouldn’t have done.”
Wilkins added: “It’s unacceptable behaviour and it should never happen on a football field so he needs to be dealt with, and dealt with severely.”
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be feeling “choked” after the latest biting controversy to engulf striker Luis Suarez, according to former England midfielder Ray Wilkins.
Suarez has seen disciplinary proceedings initiated against him by FIFA after he appeared to bite Giorgio Chiellini in Uruguay’s 1-0 win against Italy in Natal on Tuesday.
Liverpool now face an anxious wait over potential FIFA sanctions against Suarez as world football’s governing body has the power to impose a blanket ban on the Uruguayan covering football both at club level at internationally.
And Wilkins believes Rodgers and Liverpool have every right to feel let down by their star striker after standing by the 26-year-old when he bit Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic at Anfield last year.
“The people I really feel sorry for are the Brendan Rodgers’ of this world and Liverpool Football Club,” Wilkins told Sky Sports News.
“I would have thought he is absolutely choked because of what he did for him last year. He put himself on the line for him as well, as did Liverpool Football Club when he bit into (Branislav) Ivanovic of Chelsea.
“Liverpool have really put themselves out for him. What they did for him last year was nothing short of fantastic.”
Suarez has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent days and Wilkins believes Rodgers faces a difficult task deciding whether or not to keep the former Ajax striker at the club.
“I think from Brendan’s point of view it’s very difficult because he has got one of the best strikers in world football actually playing in his team,” Wilkins said.
“So it’s always difficult for the manager in (deciding) which way to go but enough must become enough at some stage.
“It will be very interesting to see which way they decide to go because if they are going to sell him they have to sell him now.
“There are no two ways about it and recoup as much money as they possibly can because the capital outlay to buy a player of Suarez’s calibre is going to be immense.
“It would be another blow for Brendan in another aspect in the fact that with Suarez at the club Brendan can attract the big players in because he is a top quality footballer.
“With the loss of Suarez will other players really want to comer? Would Liverpool without Suarez finished as strongly as they did last season? No they wouldn’t have done.”
Wilkins added: “It’s unacceptable behaviour and it should never happen on a football field so he needs to be dealt with, and dealt with severely.”
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be feeling “choked” after the latest biting controversy to engulf striker Luis Suarez, according to former England midfielder Ray Wilkins.
Suarez has seen disciplinary proceedings initiated against him by FIFA after he appeared to bite Giorgio Chiellini in Uruguay’s 1-0 win against Italy in Natal on Tuesday.
Liverpool now face an anxious wait over potential FIFA sanctions against Suarez as world football’s governing body has the power to impose a blanket ban on the Uruguayan covering football both at club level at internationally.
And Wilkins believes Rodgers and Liverpool have every right to feel let down by their star striker after standing by the 26-year-old when he bit Chelsea’s Branislav Ivanovic at Anfield last year.
“The people I really feel sorry for are the Brendan Rodgers’ of this world and Liverpool Football Club,” Wilkins told Sky Sports News.
“I would have thought he is absolutely choked because of what he did for him last year. He put himself on the line for him as well, as did Liverpool Football Club when he bit into (Branislav) Ivanovic of Chelsea.
“Liverpool have really put themselves out for him. What they did for him last year was nothing short of fantastic.”
Suarez has been linked with moves to Real Madrid and Barcelona in recent days and Wilkins believes Rodgers faces a difficult task deciding whether or not to keep the former Ajax striker at the club.
“I think from Brendan’s point of view it’s very difficult because he has got one of the best strikers in world football actually playing in his team,” Wilkins said.
“So it’s always difficult for the manager in (deciding) which way to go but enough must become enough at some stage.
“It will be very interesting to see which way they decide to go because if they are going to sell him they have to sell him now.
“There are no two ways about it and recoup as much money as they possibly can because the capital outlay to buy a player of Suarez’s calibre is going to be immense.
“It would be another blow for Brendan in another aspect in the fact that with Suarez at the club Brendan can attract the big players in because he is a top quality footballer.
“With the loss of Suarez will other players really want to comer? Would Liverpool without Suarez finished as strongly as they did last season? No they wouldn’t have done.”
Wilkins added: “It’s unacceptable behaviour and it should never happen on a football field so he needs to be dealt with, and dealt with severely.”
Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina remains unsure where he will be playing next season after confirming his agents are ‘working on my future’.
Reina spent last season on loan at Serie A side Napoli under former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, but still has two years left on his contract at Anfield.
Benitez has ruled out a permanent deal for the Spain international, who started his country’s 3-0 win over Australia in the World Cup on Monday.
The 31-year-old is planning to return to Liverpool for pre-season training, but has yet to hold talks with manager Brendan Rodgers about his future.
“I want to be calm. There are people who are working on my future,” Reina told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I have two years left on my Liverpool contract and the situation is the same as a month ago.
“I’ve not spoken to Brendan Rodgers and I don’t know what Liverpool think. But I have a contract and that is what counts.
“I have to join up with Liverpool and there’s nothing more I can do. I’ve said goodbye to Rafa and he knows the situation.”
Reina’s performance against Australia was praised by his former Napoli team-mate Dries Mertens, who has urged the club to sign the keeper permanently.
Mertens wrote on Twitter: “Good match Pepe Reina, congratulations! Now make me happy and start negotiating a new contract with Napoli.”
Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina remains unsure where he will be playing next season after confirming his agents are ‘working on my future’.
Reina spent last season on loan at Serie A side Napoli under former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, but still has two years left on his contract at Anfield.
Benitez has ruled out a permanent deal for the Spain international, who started his country’s 3-0 win over Australia in the World Cup on Monday.
The 31-year-old is planning to return to Liverpool for pre-season training, but has yet to hold talks with manager Brendan Rodgers about his future.
“I want to be calm. There are people who are working on my future,” Reina told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I have two years left on my Liverpool contract and the situation is the same as a month ago.
“I’ve not spoken to Brendan Rodgers and I don’t know what Liverpool think. But I have a contract and that is what counts.
“I have to join up with Liverpool and there’s nothing more I can do. I’ve said goodbye to Rafa and he knows the situation.”
Reina’s performance against Australia was praised by his former Napoli team-mate Dries Mertens, who has urged the club to sign the keeper permanently.
Mertens wrote on Twitter: “Good match Pepe Reina, congratulations! Now make me happy and start negotiating a new contract with Napoli.”
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
The history books will show Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard were two of England's best, despite being underappreciated and frequently misused.
When the board went up with 20 minutes remaining and Steven Gerrard was about to make his final World Cup appearance for England, it was something of a surprise that he would be replacing Jack Wilshere and not Frank Lampard.
However, it was appropriate that the veterans should reach the climax of their journey together, alongside each other in the England midfield. Two careers inextricably linked right to the end.
The debate about whether they can play together is over. The discussion about who was the better player will go on rather longer. But perhaps now is the time to accept they were among the country's very best.
This feels like a more divisive era. Bryan Robson never endured such vitriol. Ninety caps and 26 goals were enough to establish Captain Marvel as an England icon, afforded unanimous respect throughout the land.
Lampard and Gerrard boast similar England records, each passing the 100 cap mark and with 29 and 21 goals respectively. In 2005 they finished second and third in the Ballon d'Or voting, Lampard winning the Premier League, Gerrard lifting the Champions League.
In an era when Wayne Rooney is arguably England's only top-class player aged between 23 and 34, it seems extraordinary that a panel of experts considered two English midfielders among the best in Europe. Given that the award went to Brazil's Ronaldinho, they were Europe's best.
And yet, for much of their careers there has been a tendency to focus on what they can't do rather than what they can. Savvy one-touch technicians with intricate footwork in tight spaces, they were not.
With the success of Spanish football at club and international level, establishing that style as the way to play football, the reputations of players such as Paul Scholes and Andrea Pirlo have flourished to the point of reverence.
In the case of Scholes, the very existence of Lampard and Gerrard came to be regarded by some as an annoyance given that Sven Goran Eriksson's preference for the pair forced the Manchester United man into a left-midfield role and an early retirement from the national team.
However, the notion that Lampard and Gerrard were a level below these aforementioned peers necessitates a dismissive regard for one key attribute - the ability to score goals.
It's a curious business, but the 20-yarder has become too crude for some, casting Lampard and Gerrard in the role of artisans rather than artists. Science not art. And while's Dante's Divine Comedy has inspired artists for centuries, nobody waxes lyrical about Boyle's Law of Thermodynamics... or a deflected pot-shot into the corner of the Crystal Palace net.
Of course, when it comes to affecting the game, goalscoring is about as fundamental as it gets. In the four seasons between 2005 and 2009, Lampard scored 81 goals for Chelsea with Gerrard netting 79 for Liverpool. Twenty goal a season men.
The only English Premier League player to hit that tally last season was striker Daniel Sturridge. Indeed, even the veteran versions of Lampard and Gerrard between them scored more than the combined output of midfield alternatives Jordan Henderson, Jack Wilshere, Ross Barkley, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner.
It further emphasises the point that in this era when English players so often seem to be making up the numbers in teams, there to complement the foreign stars, Lampard and Gerrard were the real deal. Individuals who didn't so much take part in games as take over.
It is too late for regrets, but despite the common misconception that it ought to have been one or the other in the England starting line-up, it remains remarkable how rarely national team managers elected to truly unleash them together.
Amazingly, England only ever picked the pair in a midfield three on two occasions in the World Cup. The first was a 1-0 win over Ecuador in 2006 in a game that remains the last knockout match won by England at a major tournament. The second was the subsequent 0-0 draw with Portugal where the plan was forcibly scrapped after an hour upon Rooney's sending off.
As a result, any lingering frustration should be with the way they were misused by managers rather than focus on this perceived inability to work together as a pair. In their prime, they were being asked to do so with one hand tied behind their back. If it wasn't quite as daft as playing two goalkeepers, it was scarcely more logical than fielding two left-wingers with one at left-back.
A wasted opportunity then, but far from wasted careers - for club and country. Divisive figures in their pomp, will they soon be united in international retirement? Whatever happens next, don't be surprised if the debate is framed differently in 2018. "Henderson and Wilshere," they'll say. "Nice, neat passers. But where's the Lampard or Gerrard to crack it in from 20 yards?"
By Adam Bate.
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