De Rossi's aim is to upset hero Gerrard

Thursday 21 June 2012

De Rossi's aim is to upset hero Gerrard

ITALY star Daniele De Rossi claims Steven Gerrard is his "idol" as he prepared to face the England captain.

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De Rossi said he has dreamed of playing like Gerrard, who has shone for the Three Lions.

Roma vice-captain De Rossi started the tournament in a three-man defence for Italy but reverted to his favoured midfield position in Monday's win over Republic of Ireland.

The 28-year-old admitted he preferred an anchor role and revealed he would attempt to model his game on that of Gerrard.

He said: "Steven Gerrard has always been my idol. He is among the best in the world.

"You see Gerrard defending and attacking here and there. I would like to be able to play more like that."

De Rossi added: "England have other very good players playing on the flanks and it's a compact team."

England take on Italy on Sunday in a major finals for the first time since the 1990 World Cup.

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