Vieira: Rates Gerrad

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Patrick Vieira has expressed his belief to skysports.com that Steven Gerrard is currently the best midfielder in the world.

Gerrard has recently come in for criticism after failing to replicate his consistently impressive Liverpool performances on the international stage.

And reports are suggesting Gerrard could be set for a place on the substitutes' bench when England take on Belarus in their World Cup qualifier in Minsk on Wednesday.

Inter Milan's Vieira, however, is of the feeling that the 28-year-old, whom he battled against many times during his nine years at Arsenal, is still among the world's greatest players.

Persona

"The best midfielder I would say is Steven Gerrard. I really rate him as a player and as a man. I think he is still one of the best," Vieira said at an event run by Ford's Feel Football debate website www.feelfootball.com.

When pressed on the contenders to one day rival Gerrard as one of the best midfielders in football, the France international spoke of his former Gunners team-mate Cesc Fabregas.

He continued: "Fabregas (has the potential to be the best). I think he is learning every year.

"Now he is a top quality player. He is one of the best. In the years to come he can be at the top."

Fabregas

Fabregas has often been linked with a return to his boyhood club Barcelona, with the rumours failing to abate as the North London outfit strive for a first trophy since 2005.

But Vieira is sure the 21-year-old Spaniard can achieve all he desires at Emirates Stadium.

He added: "Of course (he can achieve everything he wants at Arsenal). I think if the club matches the same desire as the player, then why not?"

Ford's Feel Football programme engages fans debate with Champions like Jose Mourinho, Anders Frisk, Patrick Vieira and Ruud Gullit online at www.FeelFootball.com and at live events around Europe.