Italy star: Facing Gerrard is an honour
Amid the satisfaction of starting the 2014 World Cup with a win, Italy midfielder Daniele De Rossi paused to reflect on the 'pleasure and honour' of opposing Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard.
The two men were locked in the central midfield battle in Manaus on Saturday evening, with the Three Lions ultimately undone 2-1 despite a well-taken goal by Reds striker Daniel Sturridge.
Five of Brendan Rodgers' team started the Group D encounter and each contributed to an attacking display from Roy Hodgson's side, who will now require a positive result against Uruguay.
De Rossi, a World Cup winner in 2006, could celebrate an encouraging opening for his country, but also another opportunity to test his credentials during combat with Gerrard.
"It is never normal for me to play against Gerrard," the Italian commented after the game. "It always gets me emotional, I won't deny it.
"Of course, on the field you've got to get stuck in there, but it is always a pleasure and an honour. He's also a very nice guy, always very approachable.
"Players like Gerrard, Andrea Pirlo, Frank Lampard, Xavi or [Andres] Iniesta never go past the apex of their careers."
De Rossi had clearly been watching Gerrard long before the football got underway in Brazil too; in fact, the 30-year-old was following the Reds' quest for the Barclays Premier League title.
"I cheered on Liverpool until the end, but they lost the Premier League title in an incredible way," he added.