London, Mar. 31: Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard is of the view that many young footballers lack dedication and enjoy the "trimmings'''' of their well-paid trade too early.

Lampard fears this comfort zone will stop certain players from maturing into top-class internationals.

Lampard was noted during his formative years at West Ham United for his hunger for extra training, including working on his speed, mobility and stamina. Even now, at 30 and preparing for his 69th cap against Ukraine in the World Cup
2010 qualifier at Wembley tomorrow, Lampard is one of the last to leave training, often staying on to hone his free-kick technique.

The former Footballer of the Year has encouraged younger players at Chelsea and England to be more professional.

"Not enough of them are. It''s something I feel very strongly about. There are good young pros out there but nowadays it''s made much too easy for them,” The Telegraph quoted Lampard, as saying.

"We''re all lucky to be where we are, leading nice lifestyles, but that lifestyle is coming earlier and earlier. The lads are forgetting the hard work that needs to be done to earn that lifestyle,” he added.

"I have had a word with some of them. I''m close to one or two of the younger Chelsea boys. I''m not digging out everyone. There are some who are good young lads who want to be top players. We have a fantastic Academy at Chelsea. But players don''t clean boots any more and I''m a big advocate of that,” he said. (ANI)