Rodgers hails Gerrard's adaptation to Liverpool's new system

Nov 28, 2012 12:15:00 PM

The Reds manager has praised the England captain's influence at the club, and believes his new role in the set-up will help to improve the young players on Merseyside

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has hailed captain Steven Gerrard's performances as he adapts to the club's new style of football.

The 32-year-old is in his 14th year with the Anfield side and although he has not been as potent in front of goal as in previous seasons, Rodgers believes that he is thriving as a senior figure at the club.

"Over the years Steven has always been the player who makes the difference," Rodgers told reporters.

"He may not have had the goals this season that he has wanted but he has still been effective. He has obviously had to take on more of a mantle because it is a much younger group.

"There is probably a bit more responsibility on him in relation to looking out more for the team because of its youthfulness.

"I just want him to be the player he is. The great thing is he wants to penetrate. Our game isn't about possession, though it is about keeping the ball of course.

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"It's about tempo and the speed of the game and the way he plays and passes and the tempo of his game is superb."

The 39-year-old also hinted that he may try to sign Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge, stating that he hopes to bring a few players in but that there is always uncertainty whenever new managers join sides, such as Rafael Benitez's arrival at Stamford Bridge.

"You never know when new managers go into clubs, but we will see what happens over the course of the market for us," Rodgers added.

"Hopefully we can get a few in. Obviously Ian Ayre has been dealing with transfer stuff in the background and doing a great job along with the recruitment team."