Frank Lampard: 'Ashley Cole is England's best ever left-back'

Frank Lampard has hailed Chelsea teammate Ashley Cole as the best English left back of all time.

Cole is England's record-holder for most major-tournament match appearances and could earn his 100th cap at Euro 2012 if the Three Lions reach the final.

"Ashley is the best left-back England have ever had and he's shown that again out at the Euros. He has been brilliant," Lampard told The Sun.

"But that does not surprise me. I have seen him go toe to toe with the best names in the game and have never seen anyone get the better of him. Not Lionel Messi, not Cristiano Ronaldo, not anybody.

"He has been a first choice for four different England managers now, which is remarkable."

Cole is one of five players who are just one booking away from missing the semi-finals if England progress.