Lampard backs Capello to make correct striker call

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England midfielder Frank Lampard has backed manager Fabio Capello to make the right choice between starting Jermain Defoe or Emile Heskey in the World Cup qualifier against Croatia at Wembley on Wednesday.

Defoe came off the bench to score what proved to be the winner as England warmed up for the Croatia clash with a 2-1 home win in a friendly with Slovenia on Saturday.

Defoe's scoring record has led to calls for him to start the Croatia game but Lampard, who opened the scoring against Solvenia from the penalty spot, has backed Capello to make the right call.

"The question of starting is obviously the manager's decision," Lampard said.

"He has shown in his career he makes the right decision more often that not."

Lampard praised both Defoe and Heskey for the different qualities they bring to the England set-up

"Jermain is making headlines as he's scoring goals," said Lampard.

"Emile has made a great case because of the way he has played for England for a long time."

Lampard admitted the penalty he scored against Slovenia, awarded when Wayne Rooney clashed with defender Bostjan Cesar, probably should not have been given.

The England midfielder defended Rooney who had been accused by some of diving to earn the spot kick.

Lampard said: "I think maybe it wasn't a penalty. I think it was clearly not a dive but probably not a penalty."