Steven Gerrard was the 2003/04 Lion of the Season and he receives his first nomination for this campaign after an all-action performance against Austria on Saturday.

Former England defender Terry Butcher, who starred in three World Cups, said Gerrard helped England dominate the game in Vienna for 70 minutes.

"I thought Steve and Frank Lampard were particularly strong in midfield but Steve’s goal was magnificent and that just gives him the edge," said Butcher.

"Gerrard has everything you want from a midfield player. He is a commanding physical presence but can also use the ball.

"He saw the Austrian goalkeeper was off his line and his finish to put England 2-0 ahead was outstanding."

Gerrard showed his good relationship with Michael Owen by setting up his former Liverpool team-mate with a killer pass early on that Owen failed to capitalise on.

The Austrians could hardly get on the ball in the first hour as Gerrard kept the ball moving. And his 64th minute shot from 25 yards where he deliberately lifted the ball over Alex Manninger was deliberate and perfectly executed.

Lion of the Season - Nominations so far

Steve Gerrard 1
Michael Owen 1
Alan Smith 1
Shaun Wright-Phillips 1

Every Monday TheFA.com announces the best England player from the weekend with the help of a former international. The player with most nominations in May will be named Lion of the Season.