Real Madrid N98 jacket One challenge Lampard is particularly looking forward to is facing his

Real Madrid N98 jacket One challenge Lampard is particularly looking forward to is facing his long-time international team-mate and club rival Steven Gerrard.

Liverpool captain Gerrard is also heading across the Atlantic at the end of the season, to join Los Angeles Galaxy.

Chelsea sweatshirt Lampard has already checked the fixture list.

"August 23!" Lampard said, without hesitation, when asked if he knew when the two clubs were due to meet. "It's at their place.

"I am pleased for Stevie. I think it is a very good move for him and I think it is great for the league. People in Europe at the top leagues are talking about MLS. Players will go there.

"I look forward to being competitive against Stevie. We get on very well, particularly in our latter years as captain and vice-captain of England. I have a huge amount of respect for him."

Chelsea jacket blue Lampard, who won 106 England caps, believes the timing is right for Gerrard, who was in the final year of his contract at Anfield.

He said: "What more can he do for Liverpool? He has had a fantastic career.

"I wasn't sure about my timings as a Chelsea player but the decision got made for me. When you have got to make the decision for yourself it's a bit more difficult maybe.

Real Madrid Training pant "Only he knows that but at the minute I would say yes. He has been - if not their greatest player - right up there with their greatest players ever."