Frank Lampard says he feels confident about filling a defensive midfield role for England after being drafted into the unaccustomed position in the 1-1 draw with Japan on Tuesday.

Lampard has forced his way into Sven Goran Eriksson's side for Euro 2004 after scoring 16 goals for Chelsea in an impressive campaign.

But with David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Steven Gerrard all guaranteed places when England play France on June 13, Lampard is being shoe-horned into a holding role formerly taken by Nicky Butt.

It is a new position for Lampard, who has been one of the English premier league's top performers with his raids into opponents' penalty areas.

"I found playing there against Japan very good. It was different and you have to remind yourself not to go forward at times," he told reporters.

"But when we have a lot of the ball, it's enjoyable because you get a lot of possession in there. And I found the occasional time I could make a late run and I didn't get picked up."

Lampard said he would have to curb his tendency to charge forward against France, when he will be expected to nullify the threat of Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane.

"It isn't easy having to hold back," he said. "But you have to understand that the manager has told you to play that position and if you have any brains as a player you have to stay there for the good of the team.

"I am learning the role a little bit and I'm working on it in training and if I get another chance I will do even better.''