England captain Steven Gerrard has praised Rickie Lambert for the instant impact that he has had on the national side.

The Southampton striker scored the winner on his debut against Scotland last month before netting again in Friday's World Cup qualifying victory over Moldova.

"He's come onto the scene with a bang, so a goal and a couple of assists you can't ask for any more," Gerrard told the Football Association's official website.

"The manager took him off because he should play some part on Tuesday and he'll be an important player for us."

Friday's win against Moldova has seen England move to the top of Group H ahead of Tuesday's trip to Ukraine.

Written by
Jack Prescott