Terry McDermott believes Steven Gerrard deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as Kenny Dalglish and Kevin Keegan when it comes to describing his influence on and off the pitch for Liverpool.

The legendary former Reds captain has called time on his illustrious playing career, prompting tributes from all over the world, with teammates, pundits and supporters thanking him for his contribution to the game.

Like Gerrard, McDermott was a Scouser who lived the dream of representing the club, and his admiration for the talismanic midfielder is second to none.

“First and foremost, he was one of the most influential players that has ever played for Liverpool,” McDermott told Liverpoolfc.com.

“He is a great ambassador for the club, he was a fantastic player and I’ve always said and always will say that Steven is one of the three best players I’ve ever seen play for Liverpool along with Kevin Keegan and Kenny Dalglish. I would put Steven alongside Kevin and Kenny.”

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In terms of his qualities as a player, McDermott insists Gerrard had everything you could ever wish for.

“On the pitch he could do everything,” he said.

“There’s not one thing that I can think of that he was poor at, because he was good in the air, he could score goals, he could take free-kicks, he gave assists, he worked his socks off, he was quick, he had stamina, was as brave as a lion. What more do you need?

“I’m sure if he was asked to play in goal he would have been good in that position as well!

“He deserves every accolade he gets, and whatever he decides to do next he will make a success out of that.”