Brendan Rodgers has commended Steven Gerrards commitment to keeping in peak physical condition as the captain excels as Liverpools controller. The 33-year-old is on the verge of hitting double figures in Premier League assists, with nine set-ups for teammates this season. He is also two goals away from recording 10, despite playing in a deeper role. Rodgers pinned Gerrards crafty performances from the holding midfield position down to his world-class qualities, but also credited his well-conserved physique. Reflecting on the skippers shift not just in role, but in mentality - hes had to curb his natural inclination to foray forward in order to stay deeper and dominate games, Rodgers said: I look at Steven Gerrard when he went into that role, and not many players could do that. Hes got wonderful attacking instincts, and is a world-class player. Hed gone back into that controlling role just before Lucas got injured, and hes shown he can dictate the tempo of the game from there. Hes been brilliant. On Gerrards daily routine, which Rodgers is confident will extend the midfielders capacity to continue at the highest level, the Liverpool boss remarked: Hes a wonderful professional. I look at the age that hes at, and he still has a great physical condition. He prepares himself so well. Hes like clockwork. Hes in here every morning early, gets his recovery drinks, has his breakfast, and refuels himself well for training. Hes in with the medical and sports science team before Ive even made sure hes correct. Every day he trains, hes at maximum. Rodgers debunked suggestions that Gerrards new responsibilities require less energy. The role he plays now is different physically. Hes got to get up to people, be in their faces and still conduct the game from the back, he explained. Watching him this season, I can state hes still got a number of years left in him at the very highest level. #NST
Posted on: Sat, 15 Mar 2014 11:46:31 +0000
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