Monday 10th July 2006
ANFIELD ONLINE LFC NEWS

RAFA BACKS GERRARD FOR ENGLAND JOB

Gerrard has Rafa's backing

Rafa the gaffer insists Gerrard is capable of holding down the roles of captain of club and country.

In the wake of David Beckham's decision to stand down after six years skippering England, Gerrard and Chelsea's John Terry are the two main contenders for the vacancy, with the decision resting with new manager Steve McClaren.

Chelsea captain and centre-back Terry is understood to be favourite ahead of Reds midfield general Gerrard, despite the latter being the more experienced.

Benitez, though, certainly feels Gerrard could cope with the added responsibility of leading both club and country.

"I always want the best for my players, but sometimes the national team and the clubs have different interests," said Benitez.

"I want the best for Steve. If he is the England captain, if he is happy and if he is also focused on Liverpool, I will be happy.

"If he's not the captain, then maybe it will be easier for him to be focused on Liverpool."

Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Benitez added: "But I think he can do it, and if he wants to do it, it's okay.

"But it depends more on what he thinks rather than what I think."

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