Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has backed Steven Gerrard to maintain his superb form for many years to come.
Anfield manager says midfielder sets the standard
Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has backed Steven Gerrard to maintain his superb form for many years to come.
The Scot, who is the oldest player to have represented the club in the post-war era, believes the Reds skipper can go beyond the age of 39 if he continues producing inspirational displays.
Gerrard is approaching his 32nd birthday, and Dalglish insists he can emulate Ryan Giggs by extending his playing career well into his late 30s.
"Whatever is going to happen, while he is here he will be a fantastic asset for us - and Stevie will look after himself because all the lads know how to look after themselves these days," the Anfield boss told the
Daily Mirror.
"If anybody wants to be a player at that age there is an important role to be played off the pitch as well as on it.
"Stevie can play wherever he wants. We know he is going to be here, giving us the best service he is capable of giving anybody like he has done so far and we'll go along with that and manage Steven as well he manages himself, and who knows what can happen."
Talent
Dalglish feels the Reds captain is almost a unique talent and remains their biggest goal threat after his stunning derby-day hat-trick against Everton in midweek.
"It's a rare thing to have someone like him play as a one-club man for their entire career," he added.
"There's only a few around now. John Terry would be one and there are a couple along the East Lancs Road. We've got a couple here (with Jamie Carragher).
"They are fewer and farther between than they used to be, but everyone who does it, it is because they have the ability to do it and they are at a fantastic club.
"Steven has maintained an incredible level. He sets the standard.
"The first thing to do is create the chances, the second is to believe we are good enough finish them off and the third thing is to put them away."
