... But if he calls it a day, is there anyone better?
Fabio Capello, hailing from Italy where these qualities are cherished, always trusted Gareth Barry, but there is no going back to Barry or Michael Carrick and there is no young heir apparent. Jack Wilshere has lots to prove.
The empty cupboard might prompt Hodgson to plead with Gerrard to stay on as the Euro 2016 campaign gets rolling.
It has been a soft-spot in the team for some time. Gerrard has helped to mask it.
At times he looks comfortable in there but often he does not, especially against fluent teams like Italy and Uruguay.
It has been laid bare. It is another six. Pause.
Perhaps even a five.
Gutted with the score, but so pleased @WayneRooney scored and his boys were here to see it!!— Coleen Rooney (@ColeenRoo) June 19, 2014
Rooney's First Career World Cup Goal Not Enough
One moment, Wayne Rooney madly celebrated the triumph of ending years of criticism for his World Cup struggles. Then, the England striker left the field with his head down in disappointment.
... A stone-faced Rooney didn't stop to speak to reporters afterward in the mixed zone area, offering a polite, "No, sorry."