Henchoz: Martin's my pick
Stephane Henchoz today backed Martin Skrtel's credentials for Liverpool's Player of the Season accolade - and predicted the centre-back will get even better in the coming years.
The Slovakia defender has been in imperious form at the heart of Kenny Dalglish side's rearguard this campaign, winning plenty of acclaim from his teammates, pundits and fans alike - and former Red Henchoz can understand why.
"I think he's been Liverpool's player of the season so far," he told Liverpoolfc.tv. "I have been very impressed with him.
"He's been strong all season and looks to be getting better and better all the time. He is playing with a lot of confidence and that's very important for a centre-back.
"He links well with both Carra and Daniel Agger, and he's excellent in one versus one situations against opposing players. He's also got good pace, is strong in the air and reads the game very well.
"I think he will definitely get even better. For me, a centre-back doesn't reach his peak until around the age of 28 or 29 because of the experience you've picked up at that age."
In addition to his excellent form in defence for Liverpool, Skrtel has contributed four goals so far this campaign - something Henchoz did not manage to do once during his 205 appearances for the Reds between 1999 and 2005.
"If you have a centre-back who can score goals, it is always a bonus," added the 37-year-old. "It brings something else to the team.
"Martin is now always a threat going forward and you always fancy him to get a goal at set-pieces.
"I am sure he will score plenty more for Liverpool."
Meanwhile, Henchoz is optimistic about Liverpool's chances of adding the FA Cup to the Carling Cup this season, but stressed the importance of remaining focused on the remaining fixtures in the Barclays Premier League.
The Reds will face Chelsea at Wembley on May 5, but have league encounters with West Brom, Norwich and Fulham to contest first.
"I am confident Liverpool will win the FA Cup," said Henchoz. "They have shown this season they are capable of beating anyone.
"Chelsea are a good team, but I think Liverpool have what it takes to win a second trophy this season and the experience of the Carling Cup final will be important.
"But it's important to try and win each match before the final so they go to Wembley with momentum behind them."