Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster has revealed that he always saw Frank Lampard as a future manager, but did not share the same belief for Steven Gerrard. Foster, who earned eight caps for England, played alongside both iconic midfielders in the national team setup.
Speaking on the podcast 'The Managers' with Mick McCarthy and Tony Pulis, Foster said: 'You could always see he was a very clever guy. Even when he spoke, he held the room a little bit. I think that's a big skill to have.' He added that management is difficult and that certain clubs fit certain managers, but Lampard had the presence to succeed.
When asked about Gerrard, Foster admitted he never anticipated him moving into management. 'I wouldn't have ever thought that maybe he would have gone into management,' Foster said. He noted that while Gerrard was obsessed with football, like many players, that did not necessarily indicate managerial potential.
Gerrard is currently out of management after spells at Rangers, Aston Villa, and Al-Ettifaq. Lampard, meanwhile, has found success at Coventry City, leading them to the top of the Championship table with seven games remaining, nine points clear, on course for automatic promotion to the Premier League.
Foster's comments highlight the different paths of two of England's greatest midfielders, with Lampard proving his managerial credentials while Gerrard seeks his next opportunity.
