http://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/latest-news/156035-pirlo-i-m-impressed-by-stevie-s-new-role Pirlo: I'm impressed by Stevie's new role Andrea Pirlo has backed Steven Gerrard to continue to excel in his new deeper-lying midfield role and insists the Liverpool captain can go on playing at the highest level for several years to come. The 33-year-old has operated from a different position in recent weeks, just in front of the Reds' back four, to impressive effect. Juventus star Pirlo admits he's been impressed by what he's seen so far, telling Goal.com: "The intelligent players adapt - and Steven Gerrard has the ability to do that. "He is an excellent passer of the ball, possesses an intelligent football brain, and has great vision. He has all the qualities to play a deeper role. "Top European clubs are always progressing with what they can do off the field. Training is getting more scientific, and we are constantly getting more educated on nutrition. "If you look after yourself and are willing to adapt, there is no reason why you can't play at the top level until your late 30s. "Gerrard is a top professional, it is very possible he has many top years left for Liverpool and England in a new role."
"Gerrard is a top professional, it is very possible he has many top years left for Liverpool and England in a new role." don't agree with that bit, either one or the other for me. obviously know which i would prefer him to do lol, be his last tournament for england as well i should imagine, so lets hope he does it by having the winners medal for Liverpool and England at the same time at least one of them before he retires would be good, ruddy deserves it.
I think he's got his eye on becoming England's most capped outfield player, and will keep going if he's picked.
Only a 'top professional' not top, top Surely he'll only carry on while he feels himself that he's still got something to offer.
I'm sorry but Pirlo is talking a load of b*llocks (I know, who am I to question a great of the game!) But seriously, Gerrard is not a deep lying midfielder or DM - never has been and never will be. He doesn't have the discipline to dictate a tempo, he doesn't have the positional, tactical awareness to occupy such a position or to protect the back four. The only way he should be playing football is playing further up field - unfortunately, it means that our high pressing game will suffer so he can't play there. After this season, he should be a super sub - bring him on at the end of the game, stick him out on the right or attacking mid and let him play those through balls or amazing crosses.
