England Skipper Steven Gerrard
Steven Gerrard
There is no question Gerrard is a fan favourite not only at the Kop but also Internationally.
With even players and managers from rival teams saying he is by far one the best captains and players ever to have graced the Football field,
But how long has the 33 yr old got left in his International career, Well, According to Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers he believes Steven Gerrard will hang up his international boots after England’s trip to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
The 33-year-old skipper, who is set to lead the nation into battle against Denmark in March, is likely to pass the captaincy on once England’s South American exploits are complete.
The Liverpool great has been part of the England line-up since 2000, winning over 100 caps in that time and captained his country at last summer’s European Championships in Poland and Ukraine.
But as Stevie approaches the end of his career, he seems likely to prioritise club football over the international stage, and says he can’t see himself playing on beyond next summer.
Still, he is relishing the challenge of playing for his country until then, and says he plans to make the most of it while he still can.
“I’ve got to assume it’s my last year. I can’t assume I’m going to be here in two or three years’ time,” the England captain said.
“I’ve got to make the most of every single game. For all I know, I might be out of the picture in a year’s time. I want to make the most of it.”
He added that he believes Arsenal youngster Jack Wilshere could be the perfect replacement for him as England captain.
“Even though he’s young, without adding pressure to Jack he’s one of the best players in the squad,” he said.
“I’m sure when he gets to my age he will be sitting in my position with the armband on talking about another 100 cap player.”
Rodgers told the Guardian: “I think it resting Gerrard is something that Roy has looked at for these games but Steven is a real talisman for the group.”
“He is real leader for the team and everyone there. Whether he plays in any ucoming fixtures or not is another matter. There are absolutely times when you can rest him and I think that is important for him.”
“But Steven probably looks at it as though this is his last international Campaign — and after the World Cup, that will be all finished and he will have lots of time to rest then.”
“He and Roy have a good relationship and I’m sure if he needs that breather in these two games, he will get that.”
Rodgers said he is keen to ensure that Gerrard, who has started all 12 of Liverpool’s games and all five England matches this season, is not overworked.
Written By Steve Milne – Send me your thoughts www.facebook.com/steve.milne.1654
