Scott Parker: 'Steven Gerrard one of world's best'

Scott Parker has labelled England captain Steven Gerrard as one of the best midfielders in the world.

The Liverpool skipper has provided three assists for the Three Lions so far at Euro 2012, including the cross for Wayne Rooney's header in the 1-0 victory over Ukraine.

The Tottenham Hotspur midfielder also feels that his partnership with Gerrard is beginning to blossom after pre-tournament injuries to Gareth Barry and Frank Lampard.

"I think myself and Stevie have clicked really well this tournament. We're well organised. I know his game pretty well now and I'm sure he knows mine. We give the team a good base to work from, and hopefully we can maintain that," said Parker.

"Stevie is one of the best midfielders in the world. That's been the case for many years and he's been the best in the Premier League.

"We lost some big players who had to drop out through injury, like Frank and Gareth, which was disappointing. But myself and Stevie have taken on the challenge and hopefully we can carry on.

"There's a confidence in the group and still hopefully a little bit more to come but only time will tell. Over this tournament we've shown we've got a lot of commitment and togetherness, and it's perfect for us."

England face Italy in the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 in Kiev on Sunday.