Lampard wants the FA to keep their options open

England midfielder Lampard believes that nationality is not a key factor when the Football Association choose Sven-Goran Eriksson's successor.

Lampard said: "I have never held the view that we should solely be looking towards an Englishman.

"It would be very one dimensional for us to think that way."

Lampard, who is poised to win his 39th England cap against Uruguay at Anfield on Wednesday, added: "It is a decision that the Football Association have to make.

"It is not my position or that of any of the other players to have any input.

I think the FA must have a new manager before the World Cup starts Sven-Goran Eriksson

"I wouldn't expect to be involved in choosing the next manager because it is up to the FA to get the right man."

But Lampard will always hold fond memories of the part current boss Eriksson, who will stand down after the World Cup finals in Germany this summer, played in his England career.

He said: "Sven was the man who really gave me a chance with England because I had only been capped once before he took the job.

"He gave me confidence and belief that I could play at international level and I will always appreciate that."

Meanwhile, Eriksson himself has called for the FA to appoint his successor before the World Cup begins in June.

He told BBC Radio Five Live: "I think the FA must have a new manager before the World Cup starts because if they wait until after it's too late.

"England have to play a friendly game in August and then qualifying for Euro 2008 starts in September."

But Eriksson said he would not welcome the next manager being involved in his coaching set-up ahead of the tournament.

He added: "I think England should go to Germany with one manager not two.