Tottenham ace Scott Parker hopes to stay as England captain after leading the nation last night against Holland.

Parker described being named England captain as the next best thing to the birth of his children.

Asked if he would like to keep the armband for the European Championship and beyond, the Tottenham midfielder said: "Of course I would.

"I also understand there's many a player - no-one more than Steven Gerrard and a couple of others - who've obviously been there before and done it.

"It's going to be difficult for me but I would obviously relish the chance to lead the country out again and take it into the Euros.

"Whether that's me or it's not me, I know I'll be fully behind whoever it may be, determined to make England succeed."