STEVEN GERRARD

One of the greatest English midfielders in history, Gerrard is the lynchpin of the Liverpool side and has made himself a legend at Anfield. He scored his first international goal in the famous 5-1 victory over Germany in September 2001 and has become one of the first names on the team sheet for his country.

A one-club man, Gerrard has blossomed as a creative midfielder with limitless energy who is renowned for scoring crucial goals at crucial times. He captained Liverpool to an incredible Champions League win in 2005, while he has also laid his hands on every other major European trophy - except the Premier League.

His impressive goalscoring record from midfield make him a dangerous customer and he is regarded as one of the finest midfielder in Europe.

Strengths: A real leader, Gerrard is a tireless runner and has superb vision. His striking from distance is feared around the world and he is a prolific scorer for a midfielder.

Weaknesses: Has a tendency to play ‘Hollywood football’, isn’t the most disciplined and struggles in the tackle sometimes.

Career high: A vital part of the Liverpool side that came back from 3-0 down at half-time to beat AC Milan on penalties in Istanbul in the 2005 Champions League final.

Career low: Missing a penalty in the shoot-out against Portugal in the quarter-finals of the 2006 World Cup and failing to gel with Frank Lampard in the centre of the park.

Style: Whole-hearted, powerful, incisive, a natural leader.

Quotes: ”Whatever you ask him to do, you will get 100%. If he needs to play in goal he will do it. And there is more to come from him. He can be an even better player.” Rafa Benitez, April 2007.

Trivia: At 14, Steven Gerrard had trials with Manchester United.