"Obviously I'd love to captain the country," Gerrard was quoted as by British media at Liverpool's kit launch on Monday.

"It is the kind of thing every player dreams about," the Liverpool skipper added.

Beckham stepped down from his position as captain of the Three Lions in the wake of England's World Cup exit and Gerrard, along with Chelsea's John Terry, is considered a leading candidate to succeed him.

"There is no better feeling than leading the country out but that's up to (England coach) Steve McClaren."

Gerrard confessed his desires to become McClaren's skipper, but said he would respect whatever decision the new manager made.

"It's his decision and there are a lot of candidates out there that would do a fantastic job as well as myself," the 26-year-old player said.

"If it comes my way then great," said Gerrard. "If not, whoever gets the job will have my full support."

Gerrard said he was surprised at Beckham's decision but expressed pleasure that the English superstar was continuing to play for the national side.

"It surprised me but whether he was right or not we'll have to wait and see," Gerrard said.

"But it's great that David is still going to be involved on the football side. He's a great teammate and a great player.

Gerrard also spoke of his hopes for the new season with Liverpool.

"I am always excited coming back for a new season," he said.

"We have three or four new faces and I am sure there will be one or two more, so I am very happy and excited about getting started."

The charismatic midfielder said he was sure the Reds will have a more successful season next year.

"We are coming back to Liverpool on the back of the FA Cup win and hopefully we can deliver the Premiership title.

"We improved massively in the league last year, we closed the gap (on Chelsea) by half, so hopefully we can get involved in the title race, but it will be difficult," Gerrard admitted.