Stewart Downing backs Steven Gerrard for England captaincy

Stewart Downing believes that his Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard should be handed the England captaincy.

Gerrard has been widely tipped to take the role that has been vacant since Chelsea's John Terry was removed from the position earlier this month.

"[Deciding the captain] is the manager's decision but he has captained Liverpool for many years and done it very well," Downing told a press conference.

"If he is picked to do it for England I'm sure he'll carry on that job as well.

"He's a big player for Liverpool and England and a great influence on the players. He drives the team on so if he is given the captaincy it would be great."

Downing and Gerrard were part of the Liverpool side that lifted the Carling Cup yesterday afternoon.