STEVEN Gerrard is the man who could lead England to World Cup glory. I believe he's that good.

His performance in the FA Cup final on Saturday was simply sensational.

His second goal was an absolute stunner and the thing about Gerrard is he can do it week in, week out.

He did it against Olympiakos to keep Liverpool in the Champions League last season, then scored to begin their incredible fight back in the final against AC Milan.

And on Saturday he showed he's a match-winner and someone I believe could be the star of the World Cup.

He's a natural leader and the type of player Sven-Goran Eriksson should be able to build his team around.

Some people don't think that Gerrard and Frank Lampard should play together but I think they can in a 4-5-1.

I think that's the way they will play it looking at the squad he's chosen.

I think if they play Beckham, Gerrard, Lampard, Cole and Downing across midfield with one up top - that would be as good as anything in world football.

We even have the luxury of having someone like Michael Carrick in the anchor role if Sven wants to play it that way.

With Wayne Rooney injured, that looks to be the best plan of action. Michael Owen will be first choice striker but I expect Peter Crouch to play a big part.

At 6'7'', he should win most of the ball knocked into him. He's almost unique in world football because of his height and that gives England another dimension.

As for Rooney, I'd be surprised if he plays. He seems to be doing well at the moment but I'll bet he has some kind of set back.

And if he does get a game, I can't believe that a manager won't tell his centre half to do Rooney.

They will know all about the injury and they'll try and stand on his injured foot and take him out.

But whatever happens, I believe we have a squad capable of winning the World Cup.