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Gerrard: England not far from a big win

Steven Gerrard is eyeing his last World Cup © PA Photos

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Steven Gerrard prepares to kick off England's 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign on Friday insisting there is not much separating the country from glory in Brazil.

Gerrard will lead his men into action against Moldova on Friday, hoping the campaign ends with an appearance at the 2014 World Cup. The Liverpool skipper admits Brazil represents his last crack at international football's biggest tournament.

Under the guidance of Roy Hodgson, England were beaten at Euro 2012 by an Italian side who dominated before winning on penalties. However, Gerrard is adamant only small margins keep England from beating the planet's best sides, and he pointed to a record of one defeat in 18 qualifiers as proof.

"That record is very impressive and it shows we are not as far away as some people think we are," Gerrard said. "Of course, we've lost on penalties to Italy and they were slightly the better team over 120 minutes, but I don't think the margin between us and the big teams is as big as some people think.

"We believe if we keep learning and improving and don't make the mistakes of the summer, then sooner rather than later we can get a big result against one of these big nations which will be the difference between an unsuccessful and successful tournament."

Like any disappointing international tournament, calls were made after Euro 2012 for radical changes to be made to the England squad, with a focus on youth. But Gerrard is happy to see experienced heads like John Terry and Frank Lampard in the squad.

"It is an exciting time, we've got young players coming through and we've got a good blend of youth and experience, with still your Lampards and Terrys about. I think the future is bright.

"Hopefully I am still in the team in two years' time when Brazil is around and we can have another good go at it."

Gerrard also hailed the return to international football of Michael Carrick, saying: "I thought Michael did fantastically well in the last friendly. Michael is a quality player and he shows that week in and week out at Manchester United.

"I've played with him at a few England levels so I know him quite well. It is great to have him back available. He certainly makes the team and the squad stronger."

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