Gerrard hails Capello mentality
STEVEN GERRARD says coach Fabio Capello has given the England squad a “winning mentality”.
Capello’s squad touched down in Johannesburg to begin their World Cup preparation yesterday ahead of the first match against USA, on 12 June.
Gerrard has been a mainstay of the England squad since the days of previous coach Steve McClaren, who was labelled the “wally with the brolly” after failing to get England through qualification for Euro 2008.
But the Liverpool midfielder says right from the moment the Italian took over team affairs in February 2008, he has changed the dynamic of the side. “From when the manager first took over, there has been a change,” Gerrard said.
“I think every player has gone on record to say that it was a tough time to play for England a couple of years ago as there was pressure. The manager has given us a winning mentality and confidence.”
Gerrard, 30, refuses to look too far ahead in the competition, but is confident England can top their group.
“I think we can get out of the group as winners and then we take the last-16 challenges on,” he added.