Steven George Gerrard is an English professional football manager and former player, who manages Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq. Described by pundits and fellow professionals as one of his generation's greatest players, Gerrard spent the majority of his playing career as a central midfielder for Liverpool and the England national team, captaining both.
Gerrard in 2018
The Gerrard plinth outside Anfield inscribed with 86 minutes (the time of his strike against Olympiacos) and "Oh, you beauty!! What a hit son! What a hit!"
Gerrard in 2006
Gerrard playing for Liverpool in 2007
In the sport of association football, a midfielder is an outfield position which plays primarily in the middle of the pitch. Midfielders may play an exclusively defensive role, breaking up attacks, and are in that case known as defensive midfielders. As central midfielders often go across boundaries, with mobility and passing ability, they are often referred to as deep-lying midfielders, play-makers, box-to-box midfielders, or holding midfielders. There are also attacking midfielders with limited defensive assignments.
Former Spain midfielder Xavi was voted to the FIFPro World XI six years in a row.
A hardworking box-to-box midfielder, Steven Gerrard has been lauded for his effectiveness both offensively and defensively; and his ability to make late runs from behind into the penalty area.
A wide midfielder, David Beckham was lauded for his range of passing, vision, crossing ability and bending free-kicks, which enabled him to create chances for teammates or score goals.
Spain holding midfielder Sergio Busquets (16, red) moves to block a shot from Italian striker Mario Balotelli.