4. Steven Gerrard
On a night where another England player reached 100 caps, it was Steven Gerrard who was honoured for reaching that milestone last year. Although at the age of 32, Gerrard may be closer to the end of his career than the start, he still is capable of reaching glory. The England skipper played in a much deeper role for England against Brazil than he usually does, and this might be the new role for him. Gerrard is still able to be a deep-lying playmaker, but also be deep enough to provide cover and break up opposition play. With Wilshere and Cleverley further up the field, they are able to be more of an attacking option, and despite the difference in age, all three linked up excellently. Even though playing deeper, Gerrard was still able to get forward and have a couple of shots of his own. Not only does this role still allow Gerrard to do what he does best, but it also allows the midfield as a whole to function better. By playing the full 90 minutes, the England captain showed, he still has plenty in the tank to compete against the best. Gerrard will most likely be captain if England make it to Brazil next year, so his experience in a relatively young midfield will be paramount.
Joseph Perkins
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Longtime Liverpool fan. Lifetime football fan. I like to write about football, but I also have a passion for other sports and genres. Follow me on twitter (@jose_perkins), and enjoy the ride!
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