Lampard: Time to let Terry move on

Posted Thursday, March 04, 2010 by teamtalk.com

Frank Lampard wants England's fans to let John Terry move on after greeting him with boos before Wednesday night's friendly win over Egypt.

Lampard: Time to let Terry move on
Fans: Gave Terry a mixed reaction

A minority of supporters jeered Terry at the start of the match, which Lampard admitted was "half expected", but he hopes that marks the end of the dissent against his Chelsea team-mate following his recent off-field problems.

Lampard said: "The unity in the squad is fine. We've only been together two or three days and everyone is here to concentrate on football and not concentrate on anything else.

"We've certainly done that. The manager is always very strong on that. We've trained, we've rested and there is a good spirit in the team.

"The boos for John (Terry) were half expected. It has happened before. We know it doesn't do too many favours and I hope it doesn't happen again.

"Overall It was the kind of work-out we were looking for. Egypt showed themselves to be a very capable team, very good on the ball. That's why they are African Nations Cup champions.

"I think we worked hard but missed chances in the first half and, once we had got a goal back, we showed our character and quality."

Lampard also became the latest high-profile player to criticise the Wembley pitch after the 3-1 win.

Lampard's England team-mate James Milner hit out at the surface after Sunday's Carling Cup final clash between Aston Villa and Manchester United.

And it again played a part when England defender Matthew Upson slipped over in the build-up to Egypt's opening goal before Peter Crouch and Shaun Wright-Phillips inspired a comeback.

Lampard said: "I think the pitch was definitely the reason why Matty (Upson) slipped before their goal.

"The surface kept giving way, was very soft underneath, and it should be better. It's as simple as that.

"Wembley should be better than that. What could be done? They could change the pitch maybe!"

Gareth Barry said: "The pitch was a bit soft. But it was in better condition than it was for the Carling Cup final, having spoken to a few of the lads who played in that game.

"Hopefully it can keep improving."

Barry praised the performance of Terry and the boos turned to cheers as the match progressed.

He said: "There is a lot of talk about other distractions which the players don't really need at this moment in time. It was good to show we are all together on the pitch and to put in a good performance.

"John is experienced and as soon as he is out there on the pitch, everything else that has gone on is all forgotten.

"In the second half, he made a couple of challenges that were cheered.

"Initially there might have been a few grumbles but the fans were brilliant and realised we need everyone behind us."

Terry was pleased that the crowd's reaction to him improved during the match.

Terry told BBC Radio Five Live: "I was delighted with the response I got tonight from all sections of the crowd. It means a lot to me."