Gerrard hits out at fixture congestion

The 23-year-old midfielder was an inspirational figure for England during the summer games played by the national team, but he admits that he would've liked to have enjoyed a longer break away from top-level football.

Gerrard, speaking to Football365, said. "I've not had as much time off as I would have liked because of England.

"Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining because I love playing for the national side but the madness of playing after a long hard season was difficult to understand. I don't think anyone agreed with that.

"Of course you come away from it all and you’re drained but you can't lose sight of the fact that the season comes round so quickly. I don't want to take extra time off because I will be catching everyone else up with my fitness. I just have to take it on the chin and get on with it.