Frank Lampard and Brad Friedel have both poured praises on former Chelsea defender and a England international John Terry, as they talk up his current role at Aston Villa and predict his future.

Terry was heavily linked to the vacant role at Derby County after the sacking of former coach Philip Cocu. After Cocu was relieved of his duties, Wayne Rooney, who was a Player-Coach, assumed temporary managerial duties and did his best to convince the club's management to hand him the job full time.

Rooney was convincing enough and was rewarded with the permanent coaching role at Pride Park, the same place Lampard started his coaching career. The former England midfielder was the coach of Derby County for months and implemented his exciting style that was perfectly executed by a set of young, promising, exciting players.

However, Lampard left Derby and is now coach of Chelsea where he played for so many years. His Chelsea team is a young, vibrant one aiming to go all the way in the Champions League and also looking like real contenders for the Premier League title.

Before Rooney was handed the Derby job, Lampard talked up the possibility of his former teammate at both club and international level Terry assuming the duties. Lampard said it would have been an exciting challenge and a great opportunity for Lampard if he had taken the job.

According to Lampard, Terry has all the qualities to become a manager and a top one at that. He continued and said Terry has been working hard alongside Dean Smith at Aston Villa and when he is done, he will be equipped with even more traits that would help him become a great manager.

Friedel however said that it would have been a gamble for Derby to have appointed Terry and that it would also be a big risk considering the exposure in the media.