Francesco Totti understands exactly the depth of loyalty that has underpinned Steven Gerrard's Liverpool career and therefore holds the Englishman in the highest regard.

The gifted attacker has remained with Serie A side AS Roma for more than two decades, racking up hundreds of appearances and goals for the club - just like the Reds' No.8 at Anfield.

Gerrard ran out at the place he has called home for 17 years for the final time on Saturday, bidding an emotional farewell to the Kop as Brendan Rodgers' team hosted Crystal Palace.

Tributes to the midfielder were sent from every corner of the globe by supporters, current teammates, former colleagues, fellow professionals and celebrity fans.

One particularly thoughtful message was dispatched by Totti ahead of yesterday's game.

He said: "I'd put him in the top three, not just in England but in the world because he's a complete player, someone who's always made the difference ever since he was young. And he's still doing that for Liverpool.

"Ultimately, he's a player I like to watch and enjoy up close. The Liverpool fans should be honoured to have had a captain like him.

"I've got both positive and negative memories of Steven Gerrard because it's always great to come up against players like him.

"That said, I don't have particularly fond memories of playing against Liverpool, especially at their place. They were always open games but ultimately the results were negative."

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The two revered men directly crossed swords on the pitch at club level twice, home and away in the Champions League in 2001-02.

Totti has also watched Gerrard from afar, however, soaking up all of the attributes that have allowed the Scouser to become a player of worldwide repute.

"Would I have liked to play alongside him?" the Italian continued. "I think anyone would love to play with players of that calibre.

"He's a terrific player; he's a match-winner, so I think he's a player any club in the world would want.

"Gerrard is a complete player because he can play in every position and can do everything with a football at any time in a game. He's a player who scores goals, who builds the play, he's a sensational player.

"I think people all over the world know that Gerrard has been a Liverpool legend. He's spent many years playing for one team and has always fought for that club. He should be respected and thanked for everything he's achieved."

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