Stevie: We do have world-class players
Steven Gerrard has refuted claims that England lack world-class players in their squad.
After suffering the disappointment of elimination from the World Cup following defeats by Italy and Uruguay, critics have suggested that part of the problem with the Three Lions is a lack of top-level players at Roy Hodgson's disposal.
The Liverpool captain does not agree with that notion, however, and has instead argued that the future could be bright for the national team.
He said: "At the moment it's a very difficult position to fight opinions and accusations, but if I think about the talent that is surrounding me in this group, I would put an argument up against those opinions.
"I think we have got world-class players here and I agree with the manager when he says there are potential world-class players here as well.
"But, my argument won't be proven right until it's shown at this level. These tournaments only come around every couple of years so we have to be patient and wait to see if those players can become world-class.
"There's a lot of young, exciting players. There are players unfortunately who didn't make it, like Theo Walcott and young Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been struggling with a knee injury.
"I think at this moment it's very difficult for myself and the players to find a lot of positives, but you know when you have been involved in the game for a long time and you look at the bigger picture, things in football can change very quickly as well."