Liverpool ace Steven Gerrard is ready to takeover the England captaincy.

England coach Fabio Capello named Gerrard his new skipper after Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand was ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

The Liverpool captain was asked prior to Ferdinand's injury about the possibility of taking over as skipper and made it clear he would be up for the challenge.

Asked during England's recent pre-tournament training camp in Austria if he would relish the responsibility, he said: "I don't know whether relish is the right word.

"First and foremost let's hope that Rio is available for us because he's such an important player.

"Every player in the squad wants Rio to be fit and available and leading us at the World Cup.

"But I will be ready to lead the country if called upon."