Former Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard has described England’s so-called golden generation as “egotistical losers” who failed to build a united team, contributing to their underwhelming performances at major tournaments.
The 2000s England squad, which featured stars such as Gerrard, David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard, was widely expected to achieve great success but never progressed beyond the quarter-finals of a major competition.
Speaking on a podcast with Rio Ferdinand, Gerrard reflected on why the team struggled to bond during their playing days.
“I think we were all egotistical losers. I watch the telly now and I see Jamie Carragher sitting next to Paul Scholes on this fan debate and they look like they’ve been best mates for 20 years,” Gerrard said.
“Why are we all mature enough now and at stages in our life where we’re closer and more connected? Why couldn’t we connect as England teammates back then?”
He blamed the culture within the England squad for the lack of connection, explaining that players spent too much time isolated in their rooms and were neither friendly nor united.
“We weren’t a team. We never at any stage became a real, good, strong team.”
Gerrard admitted he often hated being in the England camp despite loving playing for his country.
“I used to love playing for England. Really proud. I used to enjoy the training sessions but it was 90 minutes a day. And then I was just on my own in London or Romania or wherever.”
Since retiring from international football in 2014, Gerrard has pursued a managerial career. He led Rangers to the Scottish Premiership title in the 2020-21 season, before having less successful spells with Aston Villa in the Premier League and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
The 45-year-old is reportedly close to returning to Rangers as manager following the recent sacking of Russell Martin.
“There’s a part of me that still feels that there’s a bit of unfinished business in terms of wanting to go in and face another couple of exciting challenges,” Gerrard said.
“But I want a certain type of challenge. If, in an ideal world, they become available, I’ll jump at them. If they don’t, I won’t go back in.”
