Gerrard pays tribute to 'world-class' England team-mates

Thursday 24 Jul 2014
Steven Gerrard and David Beckham

Steven Gerrard paid tribute to the "top players" he has lined up alongside for England and admits he'll miss wearing the Three Lions shirt.

After 114 appearances, the skipper called time on his international career this week and remembered some of the team-mates he's says he's lucky to have played with.

And while he mentions big name stars like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney and John Terry he also believes England's new young crop have a bright future ahead of them. 

Wayne Rooney, John Terry and Steven Gerrard

Wayne Rooney, John Terry and Steven Gerrard at 2010 World Cup

"I've enjoyed all the games and all the players I've played with, but there are certain players that stand out," Gerrard told TheFA.com. 

"Wayne Rooney is certainly one of them, a world-class footballer. John Terry, an unbelievable defender, world-class. Frank Lampard, Paul Scholes, David Beckham. 

"Even going beyond that, Tony Adams, Alan Shearer - I've opened a can of worms really because there is that many to mention. 

"But there are also youngsters who have the potential to become unbelievable footballers. The likes of Daniel Sturridge and Raheem Sterling. 

"There is a long, long list of top players that I have played with." 

He also revealed that former Three Lions captain David Beckham has been a big influence on his international career and that he has been in contact with him over recent weeks.

Steven Gerrard retires: The full interview

"He's a world-class footballer who has been there and done everything - a global star. I shared the majority of my England career with David." Gerrard said.

"He has been a fantastic help over the last few weeks and also since I made my debut.

"I'm lucky really to be able to name hundreds of footballers who I have played with as this level.

"I've enjoyed playing with everyone because to run out with England is a special feeling and that's what I'll miss. 

"I won't miss the hotels and being away from my family.

"I will miss running out putting the shirt on a representing my country, that feeling of euphoria that you get is a difficult feeling to explain to people who have never done it."

He added: "It's good memories and to share a pitch with some of the names I've just named is phenomenal for me, you know, a young kid from a council estate who only ever dreamed of playing for England once

"To play the amount of times I have and to name the players I have played with and against is great."

By Jamie Bradbury FA Editor