Steven Gerrard is rather envious of one of Manchester United’s summer signings.
It’s not often that the Liverpool legend would admit to wanting to see a player from the Reds’ Premier League arch-rivals in his former side’s ranks but he couldn’t help but discuss his admiration for none other than Nemanja Matic on Tuesday night.
Ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Hoffenheim for their Champions League qualifier, Gerrard previewed the game for BT Sport and was asked which player from the Red Devils’ current squad he’d have at Anfield.
"I'm a huge fan of Matić."
Steven Gerrard and Steve McManaman reveal which Man United players they would add to Liverpool's ranks 👀 pic.twitter.com/R06G6J5t9W
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 15, 2017
It was then that he explained why he’d be happy to see the Serbian midfielder, who United signed from Chelsea last month, in the centre of Liverpool’s midfield.
“Looking at them at the weekend… Matic,” Gerrard said. “He’s a very good player.
“We haven’t got a natural, sitting holding midfielder at the moment.
It didn't take long for Matic to win the approval of the home crowd https://t.co/OEBgqwgWFo
— JOE (@JOE_co_uk) August 14, 2017
“Jordan Henderson has done a fantastic job in there at times last season, obviously struggled with injury at times, and we’ve got Emre Can as well but for me they are suited as well to be No. 8s that can get into the box.
“I think that all those players – Wijnaldum, Henderson and Can – would all benefit from having a real big monster of a central midfielder in there who can break up play and help Liverpool be a bit more secure when they pile so many numbers forward.
“Obviously I don’t want to create any headlines, but I am a huge fan of Matic.”
Sorry Stevie but we’ve found a headline.
