Rio Ferdinand: Steven Gerrard can play for many years if he plays in deep-lying midfield role

Rio Ferdinand says Steven Gerrard can okay for many more years

Former England defender Rio Ferdinand believes that Three Lions skipper Steven Gerrard has several years left in his legs at the top level if he plays in a deep-lying midfield role.

The Liverpool midfielder has been asked to adapt his traditional style of play to fulfil a new role for Brendan Rodgers at club level recently and has finally begun to flourish in the position after a difficult transition period.

The 33-year-old carried his rich vein of form onto the international stage last night as he pulled the strings and demonstrated an outstanding range of passing during England’s 1-0 victory over Denmark at Wembley.

There were serious doubts whether the combatant Merseysider, whose legs can no longer produce his trademark driving runs on a regular basis, would thrive in the position initially, but his former England team-mate and Manchester United defender Ferdinand thinks Gerrard can continue his Indian summer for years to come.

Gerrard can play in this role for another few years….strolling!

— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) March 5, 2014

Roy Hodgson is expected to take a relatively inexperienced squad to Brazil for the World Cup in the summer and Gerrard’s experience will be crucial, particularly if his passing accuracy continues to be exemplary, in a difficult climate.

While trio of veterans Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick and Ashley Cole are not assured of a place in the squad letalone the team Gerrard remains one of England’s most vital assets.