Didi: Why Steven can play on for years
Dietmar Hamann is backing Steven Gerrard to thrive in his new deep-lying role for years to come - and insists the skipper is still the beating heart of the current Liverpool side.
The German won the European Cup, two FA Cups, the UEFA Cup and two League Cups playing alongside Gerrard between 1999 and 2006.
Back then it was Hamann who played the holding-midfield role to perfection, while Gerrard was further forward, carving open spaces with his pin-point passing and powerful surges of pace.
However, a captain's display against Fulham mid-week further underlined his credentials in the deeper position, as Gerrard scythed open the Cottager's back-four to supply Daniel Sturridge's equaliser.
Hamann believes the 33-year-old, who kept his nerve to fire from the penalty spot and clinch a 3-2 win for the Reds, has all the raw attributes to succeed in the role.
"The most important thing is that he has the mind-set to do it," said Didi. "He is still influencing games like he was 10 or 12 years ago.
"It will absolutely extend his career. Although it is hard to say exactly how long it will extend his career. I still think Stevie could do a job further forward but there is no doubt that he is doing well in his new position.
"His new position is all about keeping the team ticking over. Steven has not got as many high intensity runs and sprints to do now going forward. He is the head of the team. The heartbeat of the team. Steven is so important, especially in the big games."
Liverpool looked to be heading for a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage, one which would have halted their momentum after a sensational 5-1 demolition of Arsenal at Anfield at the weekend.
However, debutant Joao Carlos Teixeira fed the ball into feet for Sturridge, who turned, burst towards the by-line, where he was fouled by Sascha Riether and Phil Dowd presented Gerrard with his opportunity.
The skipper obliged by stepping up calmly to fire home from the spot - his 36th successful penalty for the club - and seal a dramatic win for Brendan Rodgers' side.
"His penalty could be the turning point in the whole season," said Hamann. "You can never write players like Steven off. They always find that bit extra when the going gets tough.
"His set-pieces are as good as anyone's in the league. It is a big asset and Liverpool have probably scored 10 or more goals from his set-pieces. They are all important and a big, big part of Liverpool's play."