Frank Lampard highlights Xavi danger

Frank Lampard has highlighted Spanish playmaker Xavi as the key cog in the European champions' team.

The Chelsea midfielder, who has faced the Spaniard on several occasions in club competition with the Blues against Barcelona, has seen what the Catalan and teammate Andres Iniesta can do up close.

"It's hard to pick one, but if I had to I'd go with Xavi, given what he's done over such a period of time," Lampard said, according to The Mirror.

"Andres Iniesta is a fantastic player and to compare and split them up is impossible, but Xavi is the centre of their team. I've played against him countless times coming through the ranks and over the years.

"He's one of the all-time greats and, in the last couple of years, he's secured himself up there. His ability and his awareness and his touch are something special."

Lampard, 33, is scheduled to replace England captain John Terry ahead of Saturday's friendly in the capital.