Mixed feelings for Gerrard
England captain Steven Gerrard admits he is in a zone of frustration following Euro 2012 elimination despite the team giving everything.
Last Updated: 25/06/12 3:14pm
England captain Steven Gerrard admits he is in a zone of frustration following Euro 2012 elimination despite the team giving everything.
England were beaten by Italy 4-2 on penalties in Sunday's quarter-final in Kiev after the two teams were unable to score in 120 minutes.
Roy Hodgson's team were second-best for much of the game but battled hard only to exit on penalties for the sixth time at a major tournament.
Gerrard was arguably England's star performer at Euro 2012 but that was no consolation for the captain in the wake of penalty heartbreak.
"I think performance-wise I am really satisfied with my own level that I played at," said Gerrard. "But it doesn't crack over the pain.
"At the moment I am in a zone of frustration because we came so close to ending that hoodoo."
The Liverpool midfielder was appointed England captain on the eve of the tournament and has expressed a desire to continue in the role after relishing the experience.
"I have loved it," Gerrard added. "I enjoyed the responsibility and enjoyed every minute of it. I have given it everything I've got.
"I have had a brief chat with the manager. I am available as long as I am wanted at this level and I am happy to carry on."
Fought hard
If Gerrard is to enjoy more success in the role in future, England will surely need to retain possession better than they did in Ukraine.
But the 32-year-old believes it is important to focus on the good qualities the team have shown in this tournament.
"I think we have given a good account of ourselves," he said. "At times the football hasn't been fantastic but we've fought hard.
"At times it has been difficult. Going forward as a nation we need to get better with the ball.
"But as a captain everyone has given everything and that's all you can ask.
"I think supporters will agree we have played for the shirt. We have given effort and commitment.
"But it's mixed. We are all hurt and frustrated but I think we've performed to a better level at this tournament, for sure."