Gerrard hopes for forward role

Steven Gerrard would jump at the chance to occupy the same roving role for England that he has carried out with such stunning success at Liverpool.

Fabio Capello has yet to reveal how he intends to use Gerrard when the Three Lions square up to Slovakia on Saturday, but the Reds captain is keen to continue the form that has inspired Liverpool, and that means operating behind a main striker.

"I would be very happy. It is the manager's decision of course but I have played there all season for Liverpool and that would help me," revealed Gerrard.

It is not that long ago Gerrard would have fretted at being made to play anywhere other than the central midfield berth he made his name in.

Certainly the 28-year-old made his opposition to being picked on the right wing pretty plain in the Liverpool dressing room a few years ago as speculation increased about Gerrard's relationship with Rafael Benitez.

"I had a little moan that I was there every week," he said.

"Rafa said that when he got strong enough players to play out wide, he wanted me in a central position attacking. He felt that was my best position. But I had to sacrifice myself on the right."

Gerrard accepts his reaction might not have been ideal as he can now see the fruits of Benitez's labours.

"Maybe when I was a bit selfish when I was younger," he reflected.

"But, at the moment, he is playing me in my favourite position, I am captain and we are winning. Our relationship has got stronger as time has gone by.