Steven Gerrard: Why He Deserves to Be Roy Hodgson's Captain

Since John Terry's unceremonious dismissal from England's captaincy, a permanent replacement has yet to be selected. 

Steven Gerrard is the best candidate for the job, and new manager Roy Hodgson's first act should be to name Liverpool's prolific midfielder as the captain.

Not only has Gerrard led Liverpool to numerous trophies including the UEFA Champions League, but he has also demonstrated that he can perform at the highest level on an international stage. He has netted 19 goals and has gained 90 caps for England.

On the eve of Euro 2012, the team will have to adjust to a new manager and a new style, but Steven Gerrard, who has been an England regular for a decade, would offer the team a sense of normalcy amid these new changes.

Gerrard has a familiarity with the international game that many of the young English players do not share.  Experience is fundamental to a captain's legitimacy, and the merits of Gerrard's tenure on England are unquestionable. 

Gerrard has demonstrated these necessary leadership abilities during his ten years of captaincy at Liverpool.  Whenever his side is down a goal, the team looks to their hometown hero to rally them for a comeback. 

He is the heart and soul of Liverpool and already fills a similar role for England, with or without the armband.

Throughout his illustrious career, he has exhibited a fiery disposition that has defined him as a player.  He throws everything he can muster into each tackle, shot and pass he executes.  

Therefore, Steven Gerrard is exactly the type of leader that England needs to avoid the lackluster and lethargic performances that have plagued them recently. 

No other player is a better representation of the country or a better embodiment of sportsmanship than Steven Gerrard.  If England manages to win the Euro 2012, who else is more worthy to lift the trophy other than Gerrard?