Throughout those years, you, the British people, have been a stalwart ally, along with so many others who fight by our side.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Addresses the British Parliament

Wigan re-claimed top spot in the Tetley Bitter Super League after being made to fight hard by the Wildcats who stunned the home side especially in the first half.

BBC: Wigan regain top spot

That statement raised doubts about the future of several players who will the wrong side of 30 by the time Euro 2012 comes around, but Gerrard insisted he was ready to fight for his place.

BBC: Steven Gerrard eager to prolong England career

The character and fight he brought to the side was clearly lacking in last season's 4-0 drubbing by St Mirren: it proved a watershed for Mowbray's ill-fated reign and signalled the beginning of Lennon's fledgling managerial career.

BBC: Lennon takes Celtic centre stage