Reds legend explains Gerrard's transition

Gerrard remains as influential as ever, with 10 goals to his name in all competitions this season, including a stunning free-kick to open the scoring in Wednesday night's vital 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Anfield.

But Hamann says it's the work the skipper has done at the other end of the pitch which has impressed him most this year.

Speaking on the latest episode of #LFCWORLD, Hamann said: "As an attacking player, he was probably the best at what he did for the last 10 or 12 years, and one of the most influential midfielders in Europe.

"There can't be many more players who have decided the number of games he has with their assists or goals. To go from that role to a more defensive one is not an easy thing to do and it doesn't happen overnight.

"But his adaptation, and in particular the discipline he shown, has been so impressive. In that role you have to play the same way whether you're 2-0 up or 2-0 down, and he's done just that.

"He was so good in his attacking role that you would let him play with freedom and without too much discipline because he would decide games.

"The way he has changed his game this season has been majorly impressive, and he's again been a vital part of the team. Not only does he spot danger very early, but he also wins the ball back, and we all know how good his passing ability is."

Now in his 16th term with the club, many have seen this season as a renaissance period for the 33-year-old Reds captain, and Hamann believes his new role will help Gerrard remain a key man for many years to come.

"I wouldn't say it's necessarily a new Steven Gerrard we're seeing, but certainly a different one," said the former German international. "And after seeing the way he has performed this season, I think he can fulfil this role for some years to come.

"He and the manager have obviously discussed the change in role and agreed that if he wants to prolong his career this is the way to do it."

Watch the video here »