Lampard defends 'exciting' Premiership

FRANK LAMPARD has defended the Barclays Premiership's position as one of the most "exciting" leagues in the world.

The Chelsea midfielder was honoured by his inclusion in the inaugural Mastercard FIFPro World XI, announced at a gala ceremony in London Tuesday, and his performances have long been full of dynamism.

But with attendances falling alarmingly at some clubs and the average number of goals in each match dropping, there have been suggestions the English top flight has lost both its attraction and competitive edge.