Capello considers Gerrard call

02 October 2011 11:29
England boss Fabio Capello says he is ready to call-up Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard ahead of Friday's Euro 2012 qualifier in Montenegro.[LNB] Gerrard made his second league appearance of the season as he came on as a second-half substitute in Liverpool's 2-0 win at Everton.[LNB]Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is anxious for Gerrard, who has played just over 45-minutes of football so far this term, not to be rushed and the player himself has said he doubts he would be ready for England's clash with Montenegro next week.[LNB]After the Everton match Dalglish said: "It was another step forward for Steven, coming on in a derby and getting a few more minutes under his belt. [LNB]"I think Steve aired his views and I don't think I need to add anything to that. As regards any reaction (to the groin) after the game, there was nothing whatsoever."[LNB]But Capello - who was at Goodison Park on Saturday, says he will be involved for their Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro if he is deemed fit.[LNB]"I want to speak with Steve. If he decides: 'Yes, I can', he will be with us. If he says he can't, he will stay at home," said Capello.[LNB]Capello is looking at Gerrard as he is already missing a number of players including Jack Wilshere, Tom Cleverley and Michael Carrick.[LNB]"We have big problems with the midfielders," he said.[LNB]"Some players can stay on the bench, or come on at half-time, but not play all the game. For this reason we need to be careful in every moment."[LNB]Meanwhile, Capello remains hopeful that Wilshere's recent ankle injury will not rule him out of the Euro 2012 finals next summer.[LNB]"It is an important time for England and Arsenal, and I hope Jack will be fit soon, because this is a really strong operation," he said.[LNB]"If the operation is okay he will be fit in March and that would be fine for the Euros. He would be fresh. But the operation is not a simple one."

Source: Team_Talk