I’ve thought a lot about leadership ever since I was made England captain. I always wanted to set a good example and I think I have, especially for the new lads coming in.

My first England captain, Wayne Rooney, was also someone who has inspired me a lot. He was great for me when I first got into the squad, welcoming me over the phone and letting me know what it’s like to be an England player. I’ve tried to take some of that leadership style into my captaincy as well.

I’ve always wanted the environment to feel chilled out, in the sense that the guys can be themselves and feel free to talk to whoever and play how they play, train how they train.

We have a standard that we set and it’s up to the experienced guys in the team to set the example. That helps the others come in and know what they have to do. They take it in their stride. Every good team needs three or four of those good leaders, people that you look up to.

It’s satisfying for me to have watched young players come in and develop into leaders, the likes of Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham. You go through different phases of your career and, though I want to be playing for a while, there will be a time when I won’t be playing for England anymore and I’ll be watching as a fan. That’s when it’ll be proud for me to see the younger lads taking these roles on.

David Beckham was my big idol growing up. I went to the same school as he had been at, which I can’t imagine has happened too often with England captains. He played with so much passion and the role model he was off the field is a perfect example for me. I look back at the moments watching him play for England as a young supporter and am thankful I’m in the position where I can make memories for others now.

It’s not just Wayne and David. Hugo Lloris was captain at Tottenham and I played with him for a long time. At Bayern now, we have Manuel Neuer, Joshua Kimmich and Thomas Muller. They are all leaders and I try to learn from all of them.

You can lead in so many ways and the most important thing is to be yourself and enjoy it. I try never to take it for granted that I am here now fulfilling my dream.