Jamie Carragher is an inspiration to future generations and he’ll be a top coach, says fellow Liverpool FC legend Ian Rush

Feb 11 2013 Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL legend Ian Rush says Jamie Carragher will serve as an inspiration to future generations of young stars – and has backed him to begin another successful career from the dugout.

Carragher, who has made 723 appearances for the Anfield club, last week announced he will retire from the game this summer.

He has already started his coaching badges with hopes high he will stay in the game. As a McDonald’s ambassador for the 2013 FAW Community Awards, Rush believes there could hardly be a better example for emerging players to aspire to than that of Carragher.

Rush said: “Jamie Carragher was perhaps not as technically gifted as some others, but he showed the will and determination and above all his absolutely incredible loyalty to the club.

“It would be great to see Jamie involved at Liverpool if he decided to go down the coaching route.

“One thing is for sure, whether he stays at Liverpool or not he definitely has the ability to be a top coach.”

Rush is convinced the current generation of home-grown stars are being denied opportunities by the influx of foreign talent into the game - but says British players have an advantage they must build on.

Rush added: “A lot of people seem to want to buy up foreign players because technically they may be better, but you have got to have the will to win as well, and that’s what we’ve got more of without doubt.”

Rush believes that British players must be adaptable and willing to learn. He said: “Young players need experience and to get that you’ve got to drop down the leagues.

“The prime example is David Beckham – he went on loan to Preston and it made him a tougher and more determined player, and look at him now.”

The 2013 FAW Community Awards, presented by McDonald’s has today opened for nominations and McDonald’s Head of Welsh Football Ian Rush is urging communities to nominate their grassroots heroes for one of the 10 award cate-gories. Vote at www.welshfootballtrust.org.uk