Gerrard calls for patience

Midfielder believes England are on right course

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 2nd June 2008

Steven Gerrard Celeb Goal Eng v USA

Gerrard: Taking the positives

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Steven Gerrard believes England are 'moving in the right direction' under Fabio Capello but has told supporters that it will take time to become a great team.

England failed to qualify for Euro 2008 but have shown some encouraging signs since the appointment of Capello at the end of last year.

They cruised to a 3-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday evening and Gerrard feels the players are starting to adapt to Capello's demands.

The midfielder accepts that it will be a long process but he has emphasised the importance of performing as a team and not as individuals, if England are to put years of disappointment behind them.

"A team doesn't go from underachieving and missing out on a big tournament like Euro 2008 to being World Cup winners overnight," stressed the Liverpool captain.

"It is going to take time. We need to get used to the manager's ideas and what he wants - but the right steps are going to happen. What we need to do, step by step, is build ourselves up to being a better team.

"Training has been intense at times during this spell together with some double sessions.

Improvement

"The lads are learning how the manager wants us to play, how he wants the team set up, different formations and tactics, and he is also telling people individually what he expects from them.

"It is not going to happen overnight but we are moving in the right direction. If we are going to achieve things, it is as a team and not as individuals."

Gerrard concedes that Trinidad and Tobago did not provide the sternest of examinations for England but he was happy with the performance in Port of Spain.

He added: "I am sure bigger tests are to come but it is important to put the foundations down before you become a better team.

"Everyone wants to be part of Capello's plans so that is healthy. But I think there are signs of improvement there.

"The important thing is we peak in September for the World Cup qualifiers. We all know when the important games are but it is important to start getting it right before we go into those games."