Frank Lampard backed for England job despite Coventry's tough Premier League start

Frank Lampard may have begun Coventry City's Premier League return with defeat. Still, Jamie Carragher believes the former Chelsea midfielder is building a resume worthy of one of football's biggest jobs.

Following Coventry's 3-0 opening-day loss to defending champions Arsenal, Carragher threw his support behind his former England teammate, suggesting Lampard could eventually take charge of the Three Lions after UEFA Euro 2028.

The endorsement comes as Lampard embarks on one of the biggest challenges of his managerial career, leading Coventry in their first top-flight campaign since 2001.

Carragher believes Lampard has responded impressively to setbacks during his managerial journey and has grown into a stronger coach because of those experiences.

“Lampard has come back from a few knocks and shown he's a really good manager,” Carragher said.

While hoping Lampard enjoys a successful season with Coventry, the former Liverpool defender believes an even bigger opportunity could await him in the future.

He said, “I really hope it goes well for him this season at Coventry, but I also believe he's a future England manager.”

Carragher also reiterated his long-held belief that a homegrown coach should lead England's national team.

Thomas Tuchel is currently in charge of the Three Lions, but Carragher sees Lampard as a natural candidate to succeed him after Euro 2028.

He added, “I'm a big believer that the England manager should be English. He kept Everton up, he brought Coventry up, he's managed in the Champions League with Chelsea. All of that experience will make him the manager he is.”

Carragher also praised Lampard for accepting what he described as a risky appointment at Coventry.

The former Chelsea boss took charge after replacing a manager who had built a strong connection with the club's supporters, making the job particularly demanding.

“It was a brave decision to come to Coventry to replace a manager who was well respected and loved by the fans,” he added.

Coventry's return to the Premier League could hardly have been more difficult, with reigning champions Arsenal proving too strong in a 3-0 victory.

However, Lampard remained philosophical after the defeat, recognising the challenge of facing one of the division's strongest teams on opening day.

The Sky Blues' immediate focus now shifts to their first Premier League home fixture in more than 20 years.

They will welcome Hull City on August 29, hoping to bounce back and give their supporters a memorable occasion at the CBS Arena.