Gerrard backs Wilshere to be future England captain

The current skipper is confident the Arsenal midfielder, despite having earned just seven caps due to a string of injuries, is capable of leading the Three Lions one day

England captain Steven Gerrard has backed Jack Wilshere to succeed him as skipper and earn 100 caps for his country.

The Liverpool man, 33, is set to lead the Three Lions out for the 28th time on Wednesday for the visit of Scotland.

Wilshere, on the other hand, has represented England just twice in two-and-a-half years following a succession of injuries, but is expected to earn his eighth outing at Wembley – and Gerrard is confident he can step up when the time comes.

“I’ve got no doubt [that Wilshere can captain England],” he told reporters.

“His quality, his example in training every day, he seems a level-headed kid, he wants to learn, he loves England, he’s going to be around the top for a long, long time. He ticks a lot of boxes when it comes down to other players following his lead.

“Obviously I’m really paranoid about putting too much pressure on any player, especially Jack, but he certainly has the quality to do that.”

Wilshere was tipped for a long England career after making his debut as an 18-year-old against Hungary in 2010, but Gerrard does not believe his lack of experience at international level to date will hamper his chances to lead his country one day.

“I counted once and I’ve missed 20-odd caps [through injury] so there is nothing for him to worry out,” he continued.

“There is a lot of time, it’s a long career. I’m sure once he gets to my age he will probably be sitting in my position with the armband on talking about another 100-cap player he’s that good.

“When I first came up against him at Anfield, you could see his quality straight away. From that moment really, I’m not thinking about Arsenal, I’m thinking of England and getting back out there with him and I’m excited he’s back.”

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