England's Frank Lampard (L) in action against Costa Rica's Cristian Bolanos at the World Cup. Credit:AFP

But like the Spaniard, the England man cannot afford to be out of action for seven or eight months ahead of the start of the American venture - hence the plan to send him to Melbourne to join Villa at Melbourne City and boost the now Manchester City-owned club's status and Australian championship prospects.

When City bought the struggling Melbourne Heart they promised big investment and big name players, but nobody quite imagined that they might parade two men of such stature, both Champions League winners, who had appeared for their country at the World Cup in Brazil.

It might only be on short term contracts and essentially as an extended pre-season for the MLS, but the professionalism and personal pride of both individuals will ensure that they arrive fit and in good shape and perfectly prepared to represent their new club to the best of their abilities.

However, it is to be hoped that Lampard knows a bit more about Melbourne City than Villa. After the Spain v Australia game in Curitiba, the final match in this World Cup for both teams, Villa was brought in to meet the media having been voted man of the match by a global TV audience.