Football: LAMP TURNS COUNTRY BLUE.

Byline: MARTIN ROGERS

FRANK LAMPARD believes Roman Abramovich's summer spending spree has given Chelsea the chance to form the backbone of England's team for the future.

The Stamford Bridge midfielder insists young English trio Joe Cole, Wayne Bridge and Glen Johnson, all drafted in during the close season, can become permanent fixtures in Sven Goran Eriksson's line-up.

They have joined up with Lampard and defender John Terry, both of whom harbour serious ambitions of playing a key role in Euro 2004.

Johnson was the only one of the five young Englishmen not to feature in the 3-1 friendly victory against Croatia at Ipswich last month but, at 19, has time on his side.

Lampard said: "It was an excellent effort for Chelsea to have four players in the side last time and hopefully that is a sign of things to come. As long as we all match up to our potential, we have a chance to be in the England team for a long time.

"Glen has a lot of promise as well and I am sure it will not be long before he is heavily involved with England too.

"It is always nice to have a few players from your club when you are away with England and I hope we all help the country do well.

"Over the past few years Chelsea have had some fantastic foreign players but now we are proving the club has some good English lads as well."

Former West Ham star Lampard appears to have convinced Eriksson he is worth a place.

"A year ago my aim was a place in the squad," said Lampard. "Now I want a place in the starting line-up.

"I did well in the last England game and I would like to think I will be in for this one. I have more confidence in my ability than ever before.''

CAPTION(S):

LAMPARD: Confidence