Putting aside grudges, Gerrard names the Manchester United legend as the 'best player ever'

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard recently surprised English football fans by giving special praise to a Manchester United icon.

In the recent show "Rio Ferdinand presents," Steven Gerrard showered compliments on former "Red Devil" Wayne Rooney, calling him "the best player I have ever played alongside." This statement quickly drew attention due to the historic rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United.

Both Gerrard and Rooney were key figures of England’s “golden generation,” playing side by side in the national team for over a decade. Although they never won major titles together at the international level, they are both regarded as Premier League icons, representing fighting spirit and loyalty to their clubs.

Speaking about his former teammate, Gerrard said frankly: “Wayne Rooney is the best player I have ever played with for England, no doubt about it. He could do everything: attack, assist, press, even defend. I don’t see Rooney as just a number 9 or 10, but as a complete forward who could trouble any defense on his own.”

Gerrard’s praise is well-founded. Rooney is one of England’s greatest scorers with 53 goals in 120 matches and a Manchester United legend with over 250 goals across all competitions. With excellent fitness, sharp tactical awareness, and versatility, Rooney is considered one of the most complete players England has produced.

The respect Gerrard shows for Rooney also highlights that the rivalry between the two clubs fades when it comes to recognizing true star quality. Having played alongside many top players like Frank Lampard, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, and Michael Owen, Gerrard choosing Rooney as the “best” says it all.

Gerrard’s tribute to the former Manchester United captain also reflects the mutual admiration among England’s legendary players who fought and dreamed together to bring the “Three Lions” back to the world’s top.