Football: Gerrard is England player of the year

Steven Gerrard was on Sunday named as England's player of the year for 2012 after winning over 40 percent of a fans' vote, the Football Association announced.

The 32-year-old Liverpool star edged out Danny Welbeck and Ashley Cole to clinch the award.

England captain Gerrard became his country's sixth cap centurion in November when he chalked up his 100th appearance in the meeting with Sweden.

"I still feel fresh, looking forward to the next game as much as my debut. Every time you put the England shirt on, it is a proud moment," said the Liverpool midfielder.