Former England manager Glenn Hoddle has urged Roy Hodgson to start with Frank Lampard against Italy at the World Cup.

The Three Lions get their campaign underway tonight when they face the Azzurri in Manaus.

While Jordan Henderson has been tipped to partner Steven Gerrard in the centre of midfield, Hoddle believes that Lampard's experience should be used against the Italians.

"Lampard is the man Roy Hodgson should turn to - we need his vast experience to ensure England make a solid start against Italy," he told williamhill.com.

"Everyone assumes Jordan Henderson will line up with Gerrard in a midfield partnership that has worked well for Liverpool, but I really think England need stability, experience and know-how for the start - then unleash some of the youngsters to frighten Italy in the final stages when some of their older players will be wilting."

Lampard has scored 29 goals in 105 appearances for England.

Written by
Jack Prescott