England boss Fabio Capello believes Steven Gerrard is relishing his new role as a more traditional midfielder under Roy Hodgson.
The skipper has often featured as a second striker in recent seasons - but Hodgson has already shown a willingness to utilize him in a deeper position.
Capello's decision to field Gerrard alongside Gareth Barry against Switzerland on Tuesday night suggests this could also be his future in international football.
"For a long time Steven Gerrard has played for Liverpool as a second forward but this year he is playing as a midfielder," said the Italian.
"In this position Steven is playing fantastic. He is strong in every moment and always good. He wins back the ball and then when he does, his passes are really important passes."
Meanwhile, new Manchester City signing James Milner admits he is learning a lot whenever he teams up with Gerrard on England duty.
He said: "When you've got good players they are going to shine through. You know Steven Gerrard is another top player that we are lucky to have. He has shown his leadership skills.
"Not everyone has to be a shouter. He will do that, he'll have a word and shout at you when it needs to be done.
"But he leads by example on the pitch, without or with the ball, and we are lucky to have a player like that.
"I'm lucky to be able to look up to a player like that and learn as much as I can off him."
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