Steven Gerrard is undoubtedly one of many biggest gamers in Liverpool’s storied historical past. The long-lasting midfielder captained the Reds with distinction, making 710 appearances and scoring 186 targets throughout all competitions. Years after hanging up his boots, Gerrard revealed the 2 opponents who instilled real concern in him on the pitch.
In a 2015 interview with Mike Walters of the Every day Mirror, Gerrard admitted that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been the one gamers he feared throughout his profession, citing their unmatched potential within the attacking third.
“We’re all blessed that we’re seeing these two (Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo) in the identical period,” Gerrard stated. “They’re the one two opponents I’ve been afraid of in my profession, as a result of they’re the one two who’ve been working on a special planet to everybody else. The rationale I used to be frightened of them is as a result of they’re lethal within the ultimate third of the pitch.”
Gerrard’s battles towards Messi and Ronaldo
Throughout his illustrious profession, Gerrard confronted Lionel Messi twice, each encounters coming throughout the 2006-07 Champions League Spherical of 16 when Messi was starring for Barcelona.
Steven Gerrard of Liverpool tackles Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United throughout the FA Cup fifth spherical match between Liverpool and Manchester United. (IMAGO / Allstar)
In opposition to Cristiano Ronaldo, Gerrard squared off quite a few instances over six seasons whereas the Portuguese ahead performed for Manchester United. Moreover, the pair met 11 instances in worldwide competitors and twice throughout Ronaldo’s stint with Actual Madrid.
see additionally
Al Hilal star Neymar Jr opens up about PSG followers’ remedy of him and Lionel Messi
Gerrard picks Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo
In the identical interview, Gerrard was requested to decide on between Messi and Ronaldo. The Liverpool legend leaned towards Messi, citing his team-oriented model of play.
“To separate them is nearly unimaginable,” Gerrard stated. “If I used to be pressured to select one, I’d in all probability go for Messi, however that’s solely as a result of he’s barely extra of a staff participant—he may simply present extra assists or ultimate passes, however it will be 51 to 49 % in my thoughts. If that.”
Gerrard’s legacy at Liverpool
A real Anfield legend, Gerrard spent his total prime with Liverpool, amassing 710 appearances and 186 targets in all competitions. His trophy cupboard consists of three English League Cups, two FA Cups, one UEFA Cup, one Champions League title, and a UEFA Tremendous Cup.
The 2004-05 UEFA Champions League stays Gerrard’s most celebrated triumph. That marketing campaign culminated within the unforgettable comeback towards AC Milan within the ultimate, the place Liverpool overturned a 3-0 halftime deficit to win on penalties.
