Houllier on Stevie and Hodgson

The following story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club:

Gerard Houllier believes Steven Gerrard is the perfect choice to take over from the injured Rio Ferdinand as England captain at the World Cup.

The former Liverpool manager insists the Reds midfielder thrives on responsibility and wearing the skipper's armband will increase his value to England.

Houllier said: "I am pleased for Stevie. It is a good reward to be captain of England. He must be absolutely over the moon.

"He is a winner and he will give an urge to drive them on all the time. He never gives up. He leads by example, giving a lot of mental and physical energy to himself and the team.

"His game should be even better. He likes responsibility. He likes when people trust him. That is when he can surpass himself and deliver even more."

Houllier also believes England can reach the semi-finals at least in South Africa, despite the setback of losing Ferdinand to a knee ligament injury.

"England were extremely frustrated at not being in Switzerland and Austria in the European Championships two years ago," Houllier told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme.

"This time they look to have a great desire to deliver and with players of the quality of Wayne Rooney and Frank Lampard they can do extremely well and they can even finish in the top four."

Meanwhile, Houllier ruled himself out of returning to Anfield following the departure of Rafael Benitez but said he would be "delighted" if Liverpool chose bookmakers' favourite Roy Hodgson as their new boss.

"Roy has done very well with an average team at Fulham...and he is used to coaching stars," said Houllier, who admitted he would like to return to the Premier League one day. "If the right opportunity arises, then yes."

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.