Neal ‘staggered’ by Gerrard blow

Former England coach Phil Neal admitted he was ‘‘staggered’’ by news Steven Gerrard may need an operation which would leave his World Cup dream in tatters.

The former England and Liverpool player reckoned Gerrard’s groin injury - as well as Kieron Dyer’s knee problem which is likely to keep him out - was a serious blow to England’s World Cup hopes.