Cole amazed by Lampard abuse

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Lampard was jeered when he came on as a second-half substitute during the comfortable 3-0 win over Estonia in Saturday's Euro 2008 qualifier at Wembley.

"I can't believe it. He is one of the best players I have played with. I can't remember him having too many average games in an England shirt," said Cole. "But Frank is a strong character. If anyone is a strong enough character to deal with that, it is Frank."

Cole added: "For me, Frank is one of the best players in the world. He has never let England down.

"He has been England's player of the year. It amazes me that people can do that.

"It is not nice when it happens to anyone. But Frank will come through this and show people what a top player he is."

England will have to contend with playing on an artificial pitch in Moscow but Cole believes that should not affect their level of performance as they look for the win which will ensure qualification for the 2008 finals.

He said: "Russia are going to be a different kettle of fish to Estonia. It is going to be tough. They are a good side and when they lost 3-0 here the scoreline did not do them justice.

"People go on about the plastic pitch but, for me, the ball is still going to be round and it is still going to be 11 versus 11 and there no excuses.

"I have played on Hackney Marshes so I am sure it will be better than those! We certainly don't fear the artificial pitch."