Steven Gerrard has been declared the 'best player' in Liverpool history by a man who knows more than a thing or two about representing the Reds – record appearance holder Ian Callaghan.

The 72-year-old clocked up 857 games during almost two decades at Anfield, experiencing the highs of lifting two European Cups, five First Division titles, two FA Cups and much more.

It seems unlikely that anyone will ever surpass Callaghan's epic feat, although the current No.8 should come fairly close before his remarkable career eventually concludes.

"Records are there to be broken and if anybody is going to beat the record, I certainly hope it's going to be Stevie - a local lad," the former midfielder told Liverpoolfc.com.

"It would be fantastic. Looking at him last season, Steven moved back a bit and I think it suited him. He distributes the ball incredibly. From a deep position, he had a wonderful season.

"I regard Stevie as the best player that has ever played for Liverpool, I really do. To have over 100 caps, he is an incredible player. He had a great season and Liverpool had a great season.

"From a Liverpool point of view, Steven could walk into any Liverpool team, that's how highly I rate him. And to win over 100 caps for your country is fantastic. It shows you the measure of him as a man and a player.

"Stevie shows by example - he is fantastic on the field. I don't think he is a shouter, like Jamie [Carragher] used to be, but he leads by example. He's vital for Liverpool."