Xabi Alonso has hailed Steven Gerrard as an 'inspirational' figure who he felt was capable of turning a game in Liverpool's favour single-handedly in his time at the club.

Alonso, Gerrard and Javier Mascherano formed an imposing trio in the centre of the park during Rafael Benitez's spell at Anfield, with fans famously labelling them 'the best midfield in the world'.

The Spaniard, who left the club in 2009 to join Real Madrid and is now at Bayern Munich, has fond memories of playing alongside the No.8 in that era.

He explained that the Reds felt they were never beaten with the Huyton-born captain in the XI.

"It was so inspirational. When Stevie was on your side you knew that he could have those magic moments that we enjoyed," Alonso said.

"I remember the goal against Olympiacos or the FA Cup final goal against West Ham that came out of nothing."

Alonso came close to clinching the Barclays Premier League title in 2008-09 only for Liverpool to fall just short to rivals Manchester United.

The Basque believes Gerrard - as has so often been the case down the years - was crucial to what remains an impressive campaign thanks to his efforts in an advanced attacking role.

"I remember in the last years, the connection that he had with Fernando Torres was vital for us," he added.

"For me, he's been one of the players that I most enjoyed playing alongside."

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