Now, it seems certain that he will start in Macedonia on Saturday. And, hopefully, it will be in his favoured role of attacking midfielder, with Paul Scholes and Steven Gerrard both absent.
Lamps said "I've been knocking on the door, trying to get into the starting line-up. I'm sure injuries have opened the door for one or two to make an impression - and I'd like to be one of them.
"I feel a lot more confident about being an England player. The Croatia goal has given me confidence and hopefully I can move on and get a start on a more regular basis - but your club form has to be good.
"With the midfield players we've got at Chelsea, you have to be good to get a game. With all the players that have been bought, there is a challenge - but I feel confident.
"I think last year was a good year for me. I proved a lot and felt very strong. England now is a big thing for me - to get into the team and stay there. And to do that you can't rest on your laurels - you've got to be on top of your game."
"I never considered playing on the left too much - it doesn't come particularly naturally but I've enjoyed it."
At least, from a fans point of view, if Sven doesn't pick Lamps then England's loss is Chelsea's gain...