Lampard plans to copy Giggs and play into 40s

Chelsea ace Frank Lampard intends to play into his 40's.

He is using AC Milan legend Maldini and Manchester United star Ryan Giggs, 37, as his inspiration as he looks to extend his career for years to come.

“The way my body feels I’m certainly enjoying my football as much as I ever have,” the Blues midfielder told the latest issue of Champions magazine.

“I’m hoping I can stay at the top level until my late 30s at least and emulate Ryan Giggs and Paolo Maldini. Maldini played on for Italy for many, many years and remained competitive at both club and international level.

“I guess there comes a time in your mid-to-late 30s when the question is, does your country still want you?

“Your ability to play 60 or 70 games a year changes – it’s something you have to think about when the time comes.

“In England people are very set in their ways and the pundits think the minute you turn 30 you are on your way to becoming over the hill. That’s a very dated idea.”