Euro 2012: Gerrard can inspire England as captain, says Dalglish

Kenny Dalglish believes Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard can inspire England both on and off the pitch at Euro 2012.

The 31-year-old was appointed as England’s new captain after former Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson replaced Fabio Capello as manager of the national side in May.

Gerrard has already captained England on 17 previous occasions, and it will be the second time the midfielder has skippered the Three Lions at a major international tournament after he occupied the role at the World Cup in 2010.

But Dalglish, who was sacked as Liverpool manager in May, is expecting Gerrard to exert his influence in every capacity as captain and help inspire England to Euro 2012 glory.

“You don’t realise how good some players are until you work with them,” Dalglish told the Daily Mirror. “Steven Gerrard fits into that category with me.

“When I was appointed Liverpool manager again, I began to realise what an incredible job he does on and off the pitch.

“I knew a lot of what he could do on the pitch. Everyone has seen the way he has grabbed some of Liverpool’s biggest games by the scruff of the neck and dragged the team to victory.

“But, behind the scenes, you see how he understands the importance of the position that he holds as Liverpool captain.

“Some of the work he does encouraging his teammates and with representing the club is unbelievable.

“He will carry that on for England now that he has been made captain of the national team.

“He’s a superb choice.”

England kick off their Euro 2012 campaign against France on Monday.

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Read more on: England, Euro 2012, Kenny Dalglish, Liverpool, Roy Hodgson, Steven Gerrard.