Steven Gerrard has vowed to turn 2010 into the greatest season of his life by winning the World Cup with England and the title with Liverpool – just like Roger Hunt did more than 40 years ago.
Gerrard admits he may have to put the frustration of this year’s championship race behind him as he looks ahead to two crucial World Cup qualifiers for his country in June.
But he is being inspired by the memories of England glory days of old.
Back in 1966 England won their only World Cup – and it came only weeks after Liverpool had been crowned champions in the league.
England and Liverpool striker Hunt famously picked up both medals and a similar double next year would make Gerrard the happiest man on the planet.
“Roger was a fantastic player,” reflected the midfielder, who was speaking on a visit to Christ the King school in Huyton on behalf of England sponsors Nationwide Building Society.
“It’s a bit before my time but my dad has certainly made me aware of how good Roger was.
“If I can go on and emulate what he achieved in 1966 next year, you will certainly see a happy Steven Gerrard come the end of the World Cup! It would be the best year of my career.”
The longer time passes with no-one to step in for the heroes of 66, the more distant the actual prize seems to get.
Seeing the aura Sir Bobby Charlton still attracts proves any success enjoyed at club level is eclipsed by England.
Yet, as Liverpool seem certain to reach 19 years without the championship and United stand on the brink of equalling their record of 18 triumphs, Gerrard feels it is time to be greedy.
“To win the league and then go on and win the World Cup, that’s what dreams are made of,” he said.
Gerrard admits he may have to put the frustration of this year’s championship race behind him as he looks ahead to two crucial World Cup qualifiers for his country in June.
But he is being inspired by the memories of England glory days of old.
Back in 1966 England won their only World Cup – and it came only weeks after Liverpool had been crowned champions in the league.
England and Liverpool striker Hunt famously picked up both medals and a similar double next year would make Gerrard the happiest man on the planet.
“Roger was a fantastic player,” reflected the midfielder, who was speaking on a visit to Christ the King school in Huyton on behalf of England sponsors Nationwide Building Society.
“It’s a bit before my time but my dad has certainly made me aware of how good Roger was.
“If I can go on and emulate what he achieved in 1966 next year, you will certainly see a happy Steven Gerrard come the end of the World Cup! It would be the best year of my career.”
The longer time passes with no-one to step in for the heroes of 66, the more distant the actual prize seems to get.
Seeing the aura Sir Bobby Charlton still attracts proves any success enjoyed at club level is eclipsed by England.
Yet, as Liverpool seem certain to reach 19 years without the championship and United stand on the brink of equalling their record of 18 triumphs, Gerrard feels it is time to be greedy.
“To win the league and then go on and win the World Cup, that’s what dreams are made of,” he said.
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