The England Captaincy - Crazy!

A lot of talk has surrounded the England captaincy in recent weeks after the removal of past skipper John Terry. With Stuart Pearce taking over for the game against Holland, a captain had to picked; and fast. The candidates had been outlined, with Steven Gerrard leading a small list compiling of Joe Hart, Scott Parker and James Milner. He initially delayed his decision, but after revealing who was to captain England only hours before Kick off, I was absolutely gobsmacked. Scott Parker!? In my opinion, Stuart Pearce has lost his mind. He didn't even explain his decision to the public!  All he had to do was stay out of controversy and go with the majority of the public, but he did just the opposite!

Steven Gerrard, who was in my opinion, the only
man for the job

How could he overlook Steven Gerrard? After making his debut against Ukraine in 2000, Steven had looked at home in an England shirt, performing consistency and to a high standard. 12 years and 90 caps later, Steven has gone from strength to strength, combining determination and passion with ability and experience, helping him establish himself as one of the best Midfielders in the world over the last decade. At the age of 31 combining with his 90 caps and world class stature, this experience means he shouldn't have been overlooked as England captain. Maybe it's because of his injuries? His injuries have seemed to plague him in recent years, restricting him game time for both club and country. Nevertheless, when fit, there's no one better and he should NEVER been overlooked.

No disrespect to Scott Parker, he is a terrific player. Since climbing for the youth ranks at my beloved Charlton, I have witnessed his progression and rise towards the England team. His dedication is second to none, and some of the tackles he puts in during a game are just breath taking. But sadly, his CV should've counted against in when it came to the England Captaincy. 11 caps. 11 caps is all that Scott Parkers received in his 14 year professional career, which started in 1997 coming on as a sub for Charlton against Bury in the League Cup. There's no denying his Passion and ability, but 11 caps? it is absurd how he got the nod Over Gerrard and the other candidates, all of which have much more International experience under their belt than he does.



Stuart Pearce's decision to name Parker as captain was
controversial

I'm not trying to criticize Scott Parker, because in fact I find him a terrific player and deserving of the 2011 England player of the year. Fair play, his performances had been deserved of this accolade but, he wasn't the ideal captain for me. Of course I'm pleased for him, captaining his country for the first time must've been special. I'm also ecstatic that a born and bred Charlton player had risen through the ranks and grabbed the captaincy with both hands. But it just baffles me. I even thought Joe Hart was a more likely candidate, who's young and experienced and a world class player. Although Scotty is 31, he's finally got his chance. But for the long term he should not be an England captain. Why? Because there are stronger candidates than him. Simple as that.


Ideally, Steven Gerrard would be the correct choice for me. His class ensures that he'll be in the England frame for years to come, and although marred by injuries, he fully deserves the captaincy. It may be because I have been a Liverpool follower all my life and Stevie has been somewhat of a cult hero for me, but he was the only real candidate for me. It's not a massive matter but I am completely exasperated over the decision. Gerrard - 90 caps, Parker - 11 caps. Speaks for itself really! Scott Parker is a magnificent player, but Steven Gerrard’s ability shines above all. Let's just hope the new England manager actually comes to his senses, whoever it may be.....