Chelsea ace Frank Lampard says Ashley Cole must rate as England's GREATEST EVER left-back. Cole will collect his 98th cap in the Euro 2012 quarter-final with Italy, meaning his century could come in next Sunday's final.

Lampard, 34, told The Sun: "Ashley is the best left-back England have ever had and he's shown that again out at the Euros. He has been brilliant.

"But that does not surprise me. I have seen him go toe to toe with the best names in the game and have never seen anyone get the better of him.

"Not Lionel Messi, not Cristiano Ronaldo, not anybody.

"He has been a first choice for four different England managers now, which is remarkable.

"He's been the best left-back in England for years and to maintain those high standards over a decade is testimony to his skill and dedication."