CAPTAIN Steven Gerrard is aiming to get England off to a flier - inspired by the world's fastest man, Usain Bolt.

Jamaican sprint star Bolt, who is the Olympic champion and world record holder over 100m and 200m, loves football and will be watching the World Cup avidly.


And, even though he is a staunch Manchester United fan, Liverpool legend Gerrard is one of his favourite players.

In fact, Bolt admires Gerrard so much he asked the Reds star for one of his shirts.

Gerrard, who obliged by signing the England one he wore against Egypt, said: "I'd heard Usain Bolt was a big football fan and it was really flattering that he wanted my shirt. I'm just disappointed I haven't got his pace.

"It's a pity he's a Man United fan though. I was going to ask him to one of our training sessions when he's in England but I might not bother now.

"Seriously Usain is an athlete I really look up to. As a sprinter he's the man isn't he? He's a winner, an inspiration, a character and someone I love watching."

Bolt revealed: "Even though I'm a big United fan I appreciate a great player when I see one.

"Steven Gerrard is one of my favourite players in the world. He is such a powerful footballer, full of energy and scores brilliant goals.

"I've always wanted a shirt from him to go in my collection with ones I have from players like Raul, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Kaka."

Source: The Sun