I think given time he could be the natural replacement for Gerrard. I doubt he'll ever be as good but he seems to have an eye for goal, has the energy to get from box to box and can use to ball well. Plus he is versatile and can play out on the right if needed and has a decent delivery.
I was a bit worried when he was starting every game at the start of the season because I don't think he is good enough for that just yet, but maybe that was just because Gerrard was out.