Gerrard focused on England - Reds skipper sad to see Dalglish leave, but is looking to the future

Steven Gerrard: Looking to put events at club level out of his mind ahead of Euro 2012

Steven Gerrard is sad to have seen his 'idol' Kenny Dalglish depart the Liverpool hot-seat, but says his priority is country not club at present.

Dalglish was removed from the Anfield managerial post on Wednesday following a disappointing Premier League campaign.

He was sacked after holding talks with Reds owners Fenway Sports Group, with it their belief that a change in approach is required.

Dalglish will always be considered a legend on the red half of Merseyside, regardless of his dismissal, and Gerrard has echoed the sentiments of many in expressing his sorrow at how things ended.

Appreciation

He is, however, focused on events with England right now, with new national coach Roy Hodgson confirming that he will skipper the Three Lions at Euro 2012 this summer.

"The last 24 hours have been a rollercoaster for me," Gerrard told Liverpool's official website.

"I am very sad to see Kenny leave our club. He is my idol and will always be my idol and I would like to express my thanks and appreciation for what he has done for my career.

"My focus now is on doing my best for England in the European Championships and then returning to Liverpool for a new season where we will look to build on the progress of the last 18 months and be competitive at the business end of the Premier League."