Gerrard Labels Unsuccessful England Era Self Centered Underachievers

Ex England and Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has stated that personal ambition and inter club competition hindered the national squad from securing major trophies while he was active.

Labeled the 'golden generation', Gerrard was a member of a remarkably gifted squad which never advanced past the quarter finals of a major championship under various managers.

The 45 year old, with 114 international appearances, guided Liverpool to Champions League glory in 2005.

The cluster of England talents from Manchester United, featuring Rio Ferdinand, Paul Scholes and Wayne Rooney, alongside Chelsea's group including Ashley Cole, John Terry and Frank Lampard, all achieved Premier League and Champions League triumphs with their clubs.

Gerrard mentioned that these club loyalties stopped the national side from uniting as a cohesive unit.

"We were all self centered underachievers," Gerrard remarked on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, noting the solidarity now present among the same players in their roles as analysts.

"Why didn't we form a bond during our early twenties? Was it personal ambition or competition between clubs?" he questioned.

"It stemmed from the environment within the England camp. There was a lack of friendliness and unity. We were not a genuine team. At no point did we evolve into a truly robust collective."

England still awaits the end of their prolonged search for a major men's international trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

Nevertheless, they managed to reach the final of the last two European Championships with Gareth Southgate at the helm.

Following the Euro 2024 final defeat, Southgate stepped down, with Thomas Tuchel now leading England's campaign for the upcoming World Cup.

"Gareth Southgate's ability to build strong bonds with the England squad is often overlooked," Gerrard commented.

"In my view, the talent and players were present. The standard of matches we competed in should have allowed us to achieve more than we did.

We encountered some misfortune in penalty shootouts and other areas. While we must take accountability, I feel deep frustration when looking back at England's campaigns, as we never performed to our potential.

It's a mix of factors, but a key issue was our lack of team cohesion. We were merely a collection of talented individuals, which rarely leads to success."

Gerrard's managerial journey has encountered setbacks following underwhelming tenures at Aston Villa and Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq.

However, he remains a top contender to return to Glasgow powerhouse Rangers, where he clinched the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020 21 campaign.

"A part of me still senses unresolved matters, desiring to take on further thrilling challenges," the 45 year old mentioned regarding his return to management.

"However, I seek a specific kind of opportunity. If ideal roles become available, I will embrace them eagerly. Otherwise, I will not return.

I aim to join a side committed to winning, as I believe this aligns more with my approach."