Wins against Northern Ireland and Azerbaijan have left the Three Lions two points clear at the top of Group 6, with Poland in second spot.

Now Gerrard has praised his teammates for a solid 2-0 victory over Azerbaijan that completed a very satisfactory week.

Gerrard said:"It was a professional job. The scoreline was disappointing because we would have liked a few more goals and to entertain the crowd a bit more, but we're a step closer to the World Cup.

"The important thing before these two games was two take six points. We're in pole position and if we win the next four we're going to the World Cup.

"The manager said to us that this is the best squad he's had since he's been in charge, and that gives you a great boost as an individual.

"When you look through the squad there's definitely the talent there for big things in the future."

Gerrard, scorer of England’s first goal against the Azeris, was also quick to praise captain David Beckham - who scored the second and was inspirational throughout.

He said: "I'm sure David would admit he played better in this game, I did myself. David is a great player and I think the criticism he's been getting has been a bit unfair.

"He sets such high standards that people expect him to whip free-kicks in the top corner every time he goes on the field. I think he showed he can score goals.

"He leads by example and works hard even when he's not playing well, so I enjoy playing with him.

"I think every one of us has a point to prove every time we put the England shirt on. We all have our own standards and try to perform the best we can every game. Now we want to continue that through to the finals."