Derby County manager Frank Lampard is a potential contender to replace Gareth Southgate as the new manager of England, according to reports from the Times.

The former Chelsea midfielder has adjusted to life in management like a duck to water, guiding the Rams to within touching distance of the Sky Bet Championship play-off places, ahead of what is shaping up to be a hugely exciting end to the season.

Lampard, who made over 100 appearances for his country as a player, has been linked with a move back to Chelsea this season to succeed then-under fire manager Maurizio Sarri, and definitely has a bright future in management.

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And according to outgoing FA technical director Dan Ashworth, Lampard, as well as former England stars Steven Gerrard and Phil Neville are in line to replace Southgate when the time comes.

He said: "It's our job to make sure we have enough people on the radar that are English qualified coaches, that hold the right attributes - whether they are in the system like Phil (England women's head coach) and Aidy (England Under-21 manager), or out of the system like Steven, Frank, Eddie, Sean, that we have the right relationships with them so, should the time come when Gareth moves on, we have a bigger and better pool of English coaches that are able and interested in taking the job."

Southgate has admitted that his future is uncertain after the European Championships in 2020, with current Burnley manager Sean Dyche and AFC Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe also believed to be on the shortlist to replace Southgate.

The Verdict

This could be a massive blow for Derby - they will no doubt be preparing for long-term success with Lampard at the helm, however you feel that he could jump at the opportunity to become the new manager of England.

It comes as no surprise to see Lampard being lined up for such a role - the likes of him and Gerrard have really excelled in their brief spell as a manager.

The future is bright for the national team, regardless of who they appoint after Southgate.