Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard found himself in a position of having to feign camaraderie with Manchester United figures Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand while representing England on international duty.
Although the rivalry between the two clubs persisted among their fan bases, the animosity between players like Gerrard, Ferdinand, and Neville appeared to ease on the pitch, contrasting with the intense clashes witnessed during their prime years.
During that period, when the English players from the ‘big six’ clubs vied for domestic and European honours, tensions often affected the cohesion within the national team.
Gerrard, with 114 appearances for the Three Lions, had to maintain a facade of friendship with Neville and Ferdinand due to the historical rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United during his active playing days.
Reflecting on this in 2017, Gerrard acknowledged the competitive animosity, stating, “When you’re lining up against in the tunnel against Rio and Gary Neville you want to do everything in your power to beat them, there’s hatred there, that’s exactly how it is.”
He admitted to “pretending” to like them during England meetups but emphasized that genuine friendship blossomed post-career for all.
Gerrard expressed deep respect for Ferdinand’s professional prowess and his loyalty to a top-tier club throughout his career. He also highlighted their positive rapport while working together at BT (now TNT Sport).
In present times, post-retirement from the ‘golden generation,’ Gerrard, now coaching Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, Ferdinand, Neville, and Jamie Carragher appear to maintain amicable relationships. Carragher and Neville notably collaborate in Sky Sports’ Premier League coverage, fostering a strong dynamic between them.
This camaraderie has evolved to a point where Neville and Carragher toured together as part of Sky’s ‘The Overlap On Tour’ earlier in the year. Neville, reflecting on this newfound camaraderie, expressed surprise at the idea a decade ago but highlighted the evolution of relationships over time.
He emphasized that their collective camaraderie stands as the cornerstone of their collaborative show.
England performance and stats
England
England is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It won its previous match 2-0 against Malta.
England will play the next match in Euro Qualification against North Macedonia on Monday 20th of November in Skopje. The prediction is England winning the match.
