Kenny Daglish: 'Steven Gerrard is the perfect England captain'

Former Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish feels that Steven Gerrard has become the perfect man to lead England both on and off the pitch.

The Reds legend, who is now a non-executive board member at Anfield, believes that the skipper has blossomed into the ideal captain for the Three Lions.

"Gerrard's leadership of the team has been unbelievable. He speaks authoritatively when he talks to the media. He has become a real football statesman," Dalglish told The Mirror.

"England have to do their absolute utmost to make sure he stays fit and fresh because Gerrard would be a huge miss if, for some reason, he couldn't make it to [the World Cup in] Brazil.

"I don't think it matters how old you are. It doesn't matter if you're 17 or 36. If the manager thinks you're going to be an asset at the World Cup, you go. End of story."

Gerrard netted his 100th Premier League goal in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Newcastle United.