Frank Lampard has admitted that the pressure of playing for England can affect the team’s performances.

Chelsea midfielder Lampard believes the scrutiny and expectation that comes with representing England places a huge weight on the players and he insists it takes a special type of character to cope.

The former West Ham player, who will line-up for England against Andorra on Saturday in the team’s opening Euro 2008 qualifier, has no doubts that the pressure cooker international environment contributed to underwhelming quarter-final exits at the last three major tournaments.

Lampard said: “England is another level, the intensity, everyone watching, it’s a pressure situation.

“What we have at Chelsea is not far away from that but with England every eye in the country is on you. You have to be able to handle that.

“It’s not just about your ability, you have to have the mental strength as as well.

Lampard was well below his best during the World Cup in Germany and admitted the pressure may have played its part in his disappointing performances.

He added: “Of course the World Cup didn’t go great for me. It’s a very intense environment.

“I’m my biggest critic. I know what I’m doing right and what I’m not. People try to put pressure on you, but you have to keep your head straight.”

“But I feel sharp now. I don’t know if I’m at my best yet, I think there’s more to come.

“We’ve got a new manager and a fresh start. Maybe that makes everyone a bit more relaxed.

“It’s important we have that club atmosphere and stay relaxed but we know the pressure starts with the qualifiers.”

Source:Soccer News