Liverpool manager Rodgers: Gerrard is 'the best player I've ever worked with'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has heaped praise on captain Steven Gerrard, calling the veteran midfielder the best player he's ever had the opportunity to work with.

Gerrard, 34, has come under intense criticism this season for a series of poor performances as a holding midfielder - a position he is not entirely suited for. Rodgers believes the Reds' skipper is still an elite footballer, but says fans should not expect him to be the same player he was in his younger days.

"People expect Steven to be the type of player he was 10 or 12 years ago but sadly that's not the case," Rodgers was quoted as saying by ESPN FC. "Steven has been slowly adapting to a position I felt would really benefit the team - the playmaking role behind.

"That player who scored 15 a season and made 13 or 14 assists - he's not that type of player anymore. It's hugely unfair he gets judged on that level."

Rodgers continued: "He's a wonderful player. I can safely say he's the best player I've ever worked with - his mentality, commitment and loyalty he's shown the football club has been incredible."

Gerrard is once again expected to start in Liverpool's crucial Champions League match against Ludogorets on Wednesday.