Today was perfect conditions for him. Plus, its not the offensive, on the ball side of his game that he get criticised for
Fair enough he isn't quite the player he used to be but today was just another example if it was needed how much more quality he has than the likes of Henderson and Lucas. Still by far our best midfielder
He is class but he is getting older which is only natural. Personally I hope we get another quality midfielder and use Gerrard more sparingly.
As I've said, his offensive game is unquestionable, it is the defensive side that's an issue. He gets exploited against the better sides that press the ball and paply pressure on us.
I don't think anyone questioned Gerrard's ability in games like these were he'll have time on the ball and be able to play his game. It's the games where he doesn't have this luxury when teams come and press our midfield and are quick and energetic that he struggles in. Funnily enough the 3 teams this season that spring to mind are Arsenal, Swansea & Southampton... 2 defeats and a draw. His delivery from free kicks is unquestionable still. Beckham get's a lot of credit but I don't think Gerrard's any worse.
Brilliant performance by Gerrard but just to echo Gez, he was given time and space today, and when teams do that, Gerrard will exploit - no question. My concern is that in the big games, he won't be given the same amount of time/space and that's the problem. But that's enough of my 'critique' - he bossed the midfield today, and was pretty much involved in all of our goals. Hope he can sustain this level of performance for the rest of the season
He is still unquestionably the best passer of the ball currently in the PL. He is also shattered after 50minutes. We need to manage him, play him in games where he can make a difference or bring him on later when teams press less and, more importantly, we need a quality midfielder to come off the bench and take over his urgency. When he went off, our attacking play really slowed.
