Steve McClaren has already been appointed the managerial position, replacing Sven Goran Eriksson and must pick a new captain after David Beckham stepped down in the wake of England's World Cup defeat.

Rumors have indicated Liverpool skipper Gerrard is in strong consideration for the captaincy, and Benitez has expressed his pleasure at the midfielder becoming McClaren's skipper.

"If Stevie is happy to be England captain, I will be happy," said Benitez.

"I will try to help him."

Gerrard is in top contention for the position against Chelsea skipper John Terry, and Benitez would be pleased to see his midfield powerhouse leading the country.

"It is up to Steve McClaren who will be captain, and he could pick Gerrard. Stevie is more mature now and could handle it.

"He could replace David Beckham. He is a fantastic player and he could do the same for England he has done as captain of Liverpool."

Benitez sympathized with the Eriksson, whose five-year reign ended with defeat at the quarter finals of the World Cup.

"England will have a lot of opportunities in the future, because they have some really talented players," the Spaniard added.

"It is true they did not play that well in the World Cup, but it is so difficult at that level.

England exited the tournament from the quarter-finals after losing 3-1 to Portugal on penalty kicks.