Steven Gerrard Near-Impossible to Replace at Liverpool F.C., Says Manager

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said that it will be virtually impossible to replace English club legend Steven Gerrard after the former Reds captain announced that he will join Major League Soccer (MLS) in the US. (Steven Gerrard begins goodbyes amid echoes 1988)

"When I came in here (in the summer of 2012) I still believed Steven had a lot to offer the team in terms of his performance and working here I see his great influence in the changing room with other players and the great work he does at the club," said Rodgers, reports Xinhua. (Liverpool reveal Steven Gerrard is off to USA)

"But you always have at the back of your mind he will move on and you have to look to bring through the next ones and that has had to be looked at." (Wanted Gerrard to stay: Rodgers)

"It is near-on impossible to find a direct replacement for someone of that stature and quality but we have to continue with our work and find the top players to come in. Gerrard is unique in his play and behaviour so you can't make a direct replacement but, as we have seen over many years in football, there is always the opportunity for the next one to come in."

Gerrard, 34, announced Friday that he has decided to leave Liverpool after a 17-year senior team career in Anfield, making 695 appearances and scoring 180 goals.