Steven Gerrard hails England youngsters

England captain Steven Gerrard has heaped praise on the team's youngsters ahead of this summer's World Cup in Brazil.

The likes of Ross Barkley, Luke Shaw and Raheem Sterling have earned their place in the squad following fine domestic displays throughout the Premier League season.

Established internationals such as Michael Carrick and Ashley Cole were left out of Roy Hodgson's 23-man squad, but Gerrard believes that the youngsters are deserving of their inclusion.

"They are young lads who have had terrific seasons and have endless amounts of talent and ability," Gerrard told Sky Sports News.

England's World Cup campaign gets underway on June 14, when they face Italy in Manaus.