Steven Gerrard Thanks Liverpool FC For Helping Him To England Captaincy

Steven Gerrard today spoke of his debt of gratitude to Liverpool FC as he prepares to lead England into World Cup battle.

Gerrard will become the first Reds player to captain England at a World Cup when Fabio Capello’s squad kick off their Group C campaign with a clash against the USA in Rustenberg.

Only three other Liverpool skippers – Glen Hysen with Sweden in 1990 and the Scots Graeme Souness (1982) and Tommy Younger (1958) – have fulfilled similar roles at previous tournaments and Gerrard is aware of the responsibility on his shoulders.

For that reason, all his energies are being channelled into making a success of the job but, ahead of the clash at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Gerrard has taken time to thank the people at Anfield who have provided guidance throughout his career.

Now Gerrard – who will win his 81st cap – is determined to repay the faith that has been placed in him by playing a starring role, as he attempts to make a childhood dream come true.

“It’s a huge honour to be England captain at the World Cup finals and, of course, it gives you a huge sense of satisfaction,” said the Reds’ skipper.

“All I can do is thank everyone at Liverpool who have helped me get here; from the coaching staff to the constant backing of the supporters – the roles they have played will never be forgotten.

“I’m fortunate to play at a level where the prizes on offer are tremendous and I’ve been lucky to enjoy lots of success with Liverpool. But now I’m determined to stay in this tournament all the way to the end.

“In a few years, I want to look back at South Africa and say I really enjoyed it, that I played my part and led a successful England team.

“When you are a kid, you dream of playing at a World Cup finals and 1990 – when Paul Gascoigne was the star performer – was the first one I really studied; it would be amazing if I could have a similar impact.”

Liverpool is not necessarily a city that avidly follows the fortunes of the national team but World Cup fever has gripped these parts, particularly the street where Gerrard grew up in Huyton.

A television news crew has been showing pictures of how the road is adorned with the hundreds of crosses of St George and banners proclaiming ‘Come on Stevie G!’; it has not gone unnoticed.

“I’m well aware of the support we are getting back home,” said Gerrard. “I’ve never forgotten my roots and I’d love to be able to come back in a few weeks and share my memories with everyone.”