WHAT a shame that Steven Gerrard has been forced out of England's World Cup plans just weeks before the tournament starts.

He is one of three genuine world class players in this country - alongside David Beckham and Michael Owen, and will be missed dreadfully.

However, all is not lost, for a start we should remember that other countries will be missing key players not least France without Robert Pires, while Brazil have just a shadow of the player that Ronaldo once was.

Sven Goran Eriksson has options to replace Gerrard. The obvious choice is Nicky Butt, who has arguably had his best ever season with Manchester United and has developed his creative skills.

Although still not in the same league as Gerrard in terms of passing or getting forward, Butt is as good an Anchorman as anyone in the Premiership. His reading of the game is superb, and his tackling excellent.

He also has the advantage of knowing midfield colleagues Beckham and Paul Scholes as well as anyone.

C. Burns

Victoria Rd, Horwich