England captain Steven Gerrard believes that midfielder Jack Wilshere's comments regarding international eligibility came from his "patriotic" nature.

The Arsenal star stated earlier this week that only English players should represent the Three Lions amid the debate over Adnan Januzaj's international future.

The Manchester United teenager, who was born in Belgium, could be eligible to feature for England under FIFA residency rules.

After Wilshere made his view known, England cricketer Kevin Pietersen questioned the midfielder by using himself, as well as other non-England-born sportsmen including Mo Farah, as examples of British success in sport.

"If players become available through FIFA rules, then it's up to the FA to look into it," Gerrard said in a press conference. "Jack has given a patriotic answer and not meant to criticise anyone from other sports."

Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson has insisted that Wilshere has not been affected by the furore surrounding his comments.