Rickie Lambert today hit back at Alexis Sanchez’s claims that England are too “soft” to win the World Cup.
Barcelona and Chile forward Sanchez does not think Roy Hodgson’s squad are strong enough to be successful in Brazil next summer. England face the South Americans on Friday and Lambert says the players will use his comments as an added spur at Wembley.
“You can’t buy motivation like that,” said the Southampton striker. “It is his opinion and we will take it on board and look forward to the game.”
Lambert (above) backed the Professional Footballers’ Association’s plans to ask UEFA to introduce a ruling that European teams must use at least three homegrown players in their starting line-ups. The number of English players under the age of 21 in the Premier League has dropped to a new low this season.
“The number of foreigners should be limited,” said Lambert. “I think it is a good idea. You should start playing with British‑based players, definitely.”
Lambert is one of three Southampton players in the England squad for the friendlies against Chile and Germany, the latter on Tuesday.
Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez could both make their international debuts on Friday and Lambert says his club team-mates deserve their chance.
Lambert, who has three caps, said: “The way they have performed last season and especially this season, has been absolutely superb.
“All the English lads in the Southampton team have done well, especially Adam and Jay.
“I am sure they will get a cap sooner rather than later and I hope there is [an opening for them] on Friday. It is nice to have two boys from the team I play with. It is strange showing other people around telling them where to go.
“They should enjoy it because they deserve to be here. There is nothing more special than your first call-up.
“It is good that they have got someone from their club to help them. In training I will try to impress and if I get a chance, whether I am starting or coming on as a substitute, I will be determined to do well.”
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England will be without captain Steven Gerrard on Friday as he has a hip problem and Tottenham full‑back Kyle Walker is also out of the game due to an injury.
