Most players show signs of decline in their thirties, but England forward Rickie Lambert believes he has yet to reach his peak.

The 32-year-old's rise through the leagues has captured the imagination, with the fairytale taking another turn this month with his move from Saints to boyhood club Liverpool.

Furthermore, Lambert is the first player to go to a World Cup with England having made their first top-flight appearance after turning 30, which he hopes will act as inspiration to those plying their trade in the lower leagues.

The former Saints striker, who won the first of six caps last August, is also hoping to prove age is just a number by impressing for years to come with club and country.

"My career has got better and my performances have got better. I am hoping there are a few more years of improvement yet.

"I am not saying that I am going to be there at the next World Cup, but I'm hoping that there are going to be more performances for England, definitely.

"I am going to hopefully improve again from the next level I've gone up to."