From the Liverpool Echo http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/live...ang-as-lfc-end-2011-in-style-100252-30037636/ THERE was a high five from his manager and a standing ovation from a jubilant crowd. Liverpool FC have got their talisman back leading the charge and hope springs eternal at Anfield. Steven Gerrard described 2011 as âabsolute tortureâ following his injury woes but but he ended it on a glorious high last night after a match-winning cameo against Newcastle United. This was Gerrard back on his stage, pulling the strings and inspiring those around him. He was only on the pitch for 30 minutes but he grabbed control of a contest which was threatening to go the same way as so many others at Anfield this season. Gerrard made the difference with an outstanding all-round display which he capped with a classy finish to round off a morale boosting victory. It came after Craig Bellamyâs double against his old club had helped the Reds hit back from Daniel Aggerâs unfortunate own goal. Liverpool Football Club is barely recognisable today from the mess it was in at the start of 2011. This was a year that kicked off with 10,000 empty seats for the visit of Bolton. They were a mediocre team flirting with a relegation battle and playing a dour brand of football under a manager fans had no faith in. The return of the King changed everything. Kenny Dalglish transformed the Redsâ fortunes and with the financial muscle of owners Fenway Sports Group he has put the club on the path back to recapturing former glory. But Dalglish has had to do it without the luxury afforded to other Reds bosses over the past 13 years â a fully fit Gerrard. With his captain back spearheading Liverpoolâs push for honours in the second half of the season, there is every reason to believe that the frustration of recent months will be washed away.
Watchin Gerrard last night was like watchin a Barcelona player being dropped into a match between Accrington Stanley n Rochdale
