Steven Gerrard, former Liverpool midfielder, attributed the failure of England’s golden generation to their inability to collaborate, labeling them as “egotistical losers” who created an unfriendly atmosphere.
In the 2000s, expectations were high for an England squad featuring stars like Gerrard, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, and Wayne Rooney. However, the team never advanced beyond the quarterfinals in major tournaments.
Gerrard remarked on a podcast with Ferdinand, “I think we were all egotistical losers. Watching (Jamie) Carragher and (Paul) Scholes on TV now, they seem like lifelong friends.”
“Why are we now mature and more connected at this point in our lives? Why couldn’t we connect as England teammates back then?
“I believe it was due to the culture within England, where we were never truly connected. We spent too much time in our rooms, lacking camaraderie. We didn’t form a real, strong team.”
Gerrard admitted he disliked being in the England camp, saying, “I loved playing for England and was really proud. I enjoyed the training sessions, but it was only 90 minutes a day. The rest of the time, I was alone in places like London or Romania.”
After retiring from international football in 2014, Gerrard became a manager, leading Rangers to a Scottish Premiership title in the 2020-21 season.
Although his subsequent roles with Aston Villa and Al-Ettifaq were less successful, he’s reportedly nearing a return to Rangers to replace Russell Martin, who was dismissed.
“I still feel there’s unfinished business and a desire to face new challenges,” Gerrard said about his coaching career.
“I seek specific challenges. Ideally, if they arise, I’ll pursue them. If not, I won’t return.”
