Lampard to emerge even stronger

Frank Lampard is determined to emerge stronger than ever from a difficult spell as Chelsea seek to return to winning ways.

Lampard has been on the receiving end of some acute criticism following a poor World Cup in Germany. The desire to prove he can return to his very best at both club and international level continues to drive Lampard on as Chelsea chase a third successive Barclays Premiership crown.

Lampard said: "I feel very determined and really hungry. I'm determined to be as good as I can be on a personal level, but also to be part of a team that's successful - both for Chelsea and England."

He added: "I've come out of the World Cup experience very determined. You can't let your head go down. It's all about putting things right.

"I've been very fortunate. A lot of things have gone right for me, both at club and international level, and I understand that it's down to bits of good fortune here and there... but I've also worked hard for it.

"I'd be a fool to think I could go through my whole career without any blips. Sometimes things just don't go for you, simple as that, and you just have to come through stronger - that's what makes you a man.

"It's what made David Beckham the player he was after coming back from the 1998 World Cup having been sent off."

Lampard's lack of goals in the World Cup was cited as contributing heavily to England's ultimate failure and he admits the stick he got did play on his mind at times.

The 28-year-old added: "You can't have the attitude where you think everyone's against you. It's part of being a player.

"At times it plays on your mind though. As footballers, we don't walk home with our eyes shut - we all understand the situation and there are days when you may be inclined to think more negatively about it. But the only way to react is to be positive about it, you have to tell yourself that it's part of being a footballer."