England manager Fabio Capello believes Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will be one of the most important players at next month’s World Cup in South Africa.
As the Italian tactician prepares to name his 30-man provisional squad, he has labelled Gerrard as a vital ingredient for the Three Lions as he has a big influence on and off the pitch.
“Some of the players are very important for the manager and I know him very well. I’m sure that Steven Gerrard will be one of the most important players for the World Cup,” Capello said.
“He knows everything that needs to be done during the games in the World Cup.
“Steven is not the only one. For example, when I selected David Beckham, you asked me: ‘why do you keep picking him if he only plays 15 or 20 minutes?’
“But he is really important for the dressing room. For some players, it’s not just about what they do on the pitch but they will be in the squad for their mentality, for their character and spirit. Their psychology is important.”