Frank Lampard ruled out of international duty with a throat infection

According to the official website, Frank Lampard will miss Wednesdays clash with the Netherlands due to a throat infection.  According to most media reports, this doesn't appear to be too serious.  There has been no word yet on whether or not it will cause him to miss Sunday's opener against Stoke, but I'm fairly certain he'll do everything in his power to play.

Given his form in the pre-season, losing Lampard for that clash may actually be a blessing in disguise.  With Romeu and Kakuta still away, Essien definitely ruled out, Zhirkov being sold, and Mikel picking up a knock against Rangers, depth could become an issue early on this season.  Luckily we still have McEachran, Benayoun, Malouda, and Ramires fully fit for early cover on top of some youth who might get bench appearances.  Hopefully Frank gets healthy and snaps back into form soon, but I don't think anyone here is going to be too upset to see him miss this friendly.