In the wake of Rio Ferdinand rejecting the chance to represent the Three Lions, the captain has said an international call-up is “the pinnacle” of a footballer’s career

England captain Steven Gerrard has insisted he will never reject an international call-up as it is “the pinnacle” of a footballer’s career.

Rio Ferdinand recently earned a recalled to the Three Lion after nearly two years of being overlooked by Roy Hodgson, only to pull out of the squad after fears his specific training and medical requirements could not be fulfilled while on international duty.

But Gerrard, who has played every single minute of Liverpool’s Premier League campaign thus far, says he is keen to represent his country as much as possible.

“Playing for England is the pinnacle of everyone’s career,” Gerrard told reporters. “If I’m not playing [against San Marino] I’ll be very disappointed, which shows what it means to me.

“First of all, I don’t know if Rio has turned his back on it. I don’t know the details from his side. But that’s what I want to achieve – help take this team to a World Cup in Brazil.

“At my age, there’s no better stage for a footballer to play on. Especially after beating Brazil. On our day, with a full-strength squad, we’re capable of beating the best.”

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson had previously expressed his concerns over Ferdinand’s long-term back injury and increased recuperation period due to his age.

Gerrard, however, says his own regime is suited to international football and has no concerns over risking his fitness.

He continued: “I’m not tired, I’m fine. My body’s good, I’m good. I have my own personal programme I stick to, but that’s the same as any other player – two days of recovery after a game, taking it easy, so I’m fine.”