Gerrard: Ferdinand as vital as Rooney

(GSM) – Steven Gerrard believes there is no problem in hyping the England captaincy. Gerrard, who will captain England when they face Egypt tonight, said the Three Lions’ captaincy is a massive issue that is undermined in other countries.

John Terry was recently stripped of the armband following allegations of an extra-marital affair with the former girlfriend of international teammate Wayne Bridge. Fabio Capello chose Rio Ferdinand as new England captain.

“I don’t think we make too much of it. To be captain of England is a proud feeling,” he said.

“Every kid dreams of being England captain. I was no different.

“I don’t really care about what other countries think about the captaincy. You have to earn the right to be England captain.

“It’s disrespecting the captaincy to get it as the oldest or most capped player. It’s massive over here, and rightly so.”

And Gerrard has praised England’s new full-time captain, Ferdinand saying that the Manchester United defender is as important as Wayne Rooney for England.

“Rio has been put in to become the captain full time,” he said.

“In an ideal situation, if he’s fit, he’s a massive player.

“I understand he’s got a back injury so, fingers crossed, he’ll be fit.

“You talk about how important Wayne Rooney is for the team but Rio’s no different. A vital player.”