Philippe Coutinho has paid tribute to Steve Gerrard ahead of the Liverpool legend’s final game at Anfield on Saturday.
After 708 appearances in a Liverpool shirt Gerrard will run out in front of the Kop for a final time against Crystal Palace and Brazil international Coutinho expects the occasion to be an emotive one.
“It’s going to be very emotional. He’s one of football’s greatest and I admire him a lot on and off the pitch,” the 22-year-old told Liverpoolfc.com.
“He’s a humble, hard-working character who gets on well with everyone. He’s also one of the best Liverpool player of all time, if not the greatest.
“I’m sure his last game at Anfield will be very moving to all involved.”
Coutinho also revealed his gratitude to the Liverpool captain for the positive influence he has had on his own career and the great example he set for Liverpool’s younger players.
“He’s had a great influence on me and I must thank him for everything he did,” he added.
“I’m constantly observing him and the way he works in training. He’s selfless and treats everyone equally, from the youngest to the oldest.
“He’s an icon and having the opportunity to watch him closely has had in itself a huge positive impact on me.
“I’d like to thank him for these two and a half years we’ve been working together, which provided an opportunity for me to learn many things.
“I’m very honoured I’ve had the chance to live together with him daily in training and to play alongside him – it meant so much to me.
“I wish him and his family all the best on the course of his career. Thank you.”
