Five Reasons Why England Are Better Off Without Frank Lampard

Frank Lampard has picked up 83 international caps for England, but his performances for the Three Lions have never truly won over the fans who doubt his credentials.

And seeing as the 32-year-old will miss England's opening Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland through injury, there are some who see his absence as the perfect time to leave Lampard behind.

Here are five reasons England would be better without him.

1. Steve Gerrard Becomes the Focal Point in Midfield

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LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 02: Steven Gerrard talks to Wayne Rooney (L) during the England training session at Wembley Stadium on September 2, 2010 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

With Lampard out, Fabio Capello looks set to go with Steven Gerrard in central midfield—his preferred position—and not out wide.

Seeing as Gerrard is potentially England's most influential player, it surely makes sense to play him where he's been since the age of seven.

2. Lampard Is Too Old

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BLOEMFONTEIN, SOUTH AFRICA - JUNE 27: Frank Lampard of England looks on during the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa Round of Sixteen match between Germany and England at Free State Stadium on June 27, 2010 in Bloemfontein, South Africa. (Photo by Clive

Lampard will turn 34 during Euro 2012, and would therefore be 36 at World Cup 2014—seriously pushing the age boundaries for a central midfielder who plays almost every game at club level.

England should surely plan for the future.

3. Lampard Has Never Produced for England

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GELSENKIRCHEN, GERMANY - JULY 01: Frank Lampard of England shows his frustration after missing a penalty during the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 Quarter-final match between England and Portugal played at the Stadium Gelsenkirchen on July 1, 2006 in Gelsenk

While Lampard has been a loyal servant for his country, we've never truly seen the kind of match-winning form he shows on a weekly basis with Chelsea.

He's survived too long on reputation and not on his performance in an England shirt.

4. Time for the Next Generation

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 04: Jack Rodwell of Everton beats Cesar Daniel Garipe of Everton Chile during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and Everton Chile at Goodison Park on August 4, 2010 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/G

In Jack Rodwell and Jack Wilshere, England have two young players who can operate centrally to compliment Gareth Barry and Steven Gerrard. Why not blood them now and watch them grow?

5. Walcott and Johnson Released

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ST ALBANS, ENGLAND - AUGUST 31: Theo Walcott talks to the media during the England press conference at London Colney on August 31, 2010 in St Albans, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

With Lampard out, Gerrard comes inside and a position on the flank becomes available. This will mean a chance for Theo Walcott or Adam Johnson tonight (possibly both)—arguably two of England's potentially most effective attackers.