'Steven can carry on his great captaincy'
Steven Gerrard's qualities as a captain for club and country have been lauded by a player who equally understands the responsibilities of leading England – David Beckham.
The Liverpool skipper guided a youthful Three Lions squad at the World Cup this summer but was left disappointed by an immediate exit from the tournament at the group stage.
Defeats by Italy and then Uruguay ruined any hopes of progression for Roy Hodgson's team, who signed off from the competition with a goalless draw against Costa Rica.
With the 2016 European Championship representing the next opportunity for success with England in two years' time, Gerrard has yet to announce a decision on his international future.
For his part, Beckham believes the team would benefit from the midfielder's continued presence, particularly given the recent graduation of many young players.
"Steven has been a great England captain and a great Liverpool captain, and he'll continue to do that," he told BBC Sport. "He's one of the best midfield players I've ever played with.
"You could see the pain he was in after the competition - he was disappointed, and it was the same with all of the other players.
"I hope Stevie continues because these young players need a mentor, a player that they can look up to and someone with great experience.
"Obviously Liverpool are going into the Champions League but I do genuinely hope that he continues as England captain."