Ex-England boss backs Gerrard

Last updated : 17 May 2006 By Al Campbell
Gerrard has failed to reproduce his Liverpool form for England in the big games but Venables believes that will all change in the upcoming World Cup.

"That [FA Cup final performance] is as good as it gets for a midfield player," said the England boss who took the three lions to the semi-finals of Euro '96.

"He was everywhere and got a great goal when it looked like they were out of it. It was as good a goal as you'll ever see.

"It's a long season but it's a long season for everybody. You've got to rest players and you've just got to handle it right."