22.06.2002 - Eriksson: Gerrard would have helped us

---

Sven Goran Eriksson today spoke of the disappointment of losing Steven Gerrard for the World Cup, which was due to Gerrard's groin injury picked up in Liverpool's final Premiership match of the season.

England were beaten in their quarter final match with Brazil, but Eriksson believed that Gerrard could have made a difference.

"A fit Steven Gerrard should have helped us a lot. He's one of the best midfielders you can find in the world today," said the England coach.

Gerrard will be fit to resume his England career in time for the start of the 2004 European Championship qualifiers, which begin in September.