Zinedine Zidane has claimed that Steven Gerrard was right to retire from international football at this stage of his career.

Gerrard announced his retirement from England duty earlier this week after making 114 caps for his country, and Zidane is confident that Liverpool will feel the benefit of having the midfielder concentrating on club football.

"Liverpool showed last season that they are close to achieving something special, and it is so important they have their captain available," the former France captain told members of the media.

"They are back in the Champions League this season, and as you get older you have to accept you can't play every game for club and country.

"I am sure it was not an easy decision for Steven, but I think it is the right one for himself and Liverpool."

Wayne Rooney is the current favourite to replace Gerrard as England captain.