Adam: Gerrard is LFC's biggest legend

The 34-year-old is set to embark on a new adventure with LA Galaxy in the United States when the current campaign comes to a close. 

Gerrard's departure will mark the end of a relationship with the Reds that began when he joined the club's Academy at the age of just nine.

The skipper has picked up a string of major honours since breaking through to the first team in 1998, claiming third and fifth place on the Reds' all-time top appearances and goals lists respectively in that time.

And Lallana, who moved to Anfield from Southampton only last summer, says it has been a privilege to play alongside such a legendary figure - even if only for a single season.

“I grew up watching Stevie play at the beginning of his career,” he told the Liverpool Echo. “He has to be the biggest legend this club has ever seen.

"It’s hard to put into words what he’s done here. What he’s achieved is mind-blowing.

“He’s easily up there with the best we’ve ever seen in the Premier League.

“You think of the Champions League final in 2005 and the FA Cup final a year later, he’s always been the ‘go-to man’. He has always contributed massively to this club’s success.

“He delivers on the biggest stages. He’s done that throughout his career. He’s so calm under pressure and that’s something you can’t buy. It’s instilled in you and he’s going to be sadly missed.

“It’s a shame it’s only been for one season, but I feel privileged to be able to say I’ve played with him. It’s been a great honour. Watching him on a daily basis has certainly helped me both on and off the pitch. 

"Hopefully he will return one day in a coaching capacity or some other role because his knowledge, experience and love for this club is huge.”

Lallana first worked closely with Gerrard after breaking into the England team in 2013 thanks to several impressive performances for Southampton.

The 26-year-old says he was initially 'star-struck', but soon learned that his new captain at international level possessed the humility to match his quality on the field.

“I would have been on England duty when I first met Steven and I watched how he went about his business - quietly and really professionally," he added.

“At the beginning, I was a bit star-struck, but he made me feel welcome. He’s such a humble person and a dedicated professional.

“He’s just as good a person as he is a football player. He doesn’t say too much in the dressing room, but when he does speak everyone listens. 

"It's words you really take in. He’s got presence and an aura about him so he doesn’t need to say a lot.”

Liverpool will pay special tribute to their departing skipper at the end-of-season Players' Awards event, set to be held at the Echo Arena on Tuesday May 19.

Lallana is certain the event will be the perfect opportunity for fans and colleagues alike to say a fitting farewell to Gerrard.

“The awards are a chance to recognise everything Stevie has done,” he added.

“He will always be appreciated here and everyone wants to make it special for him.

“Stevie is irreplaceable. We’re losing a massive leader, a big character and a midfielder with world class ability.

“We all have to take on greater responsibility and give that extra few per cent. Everyone needs to chip in and work harder to help the team kick on.”

Tickets for the Players' Awards are available from just £28 (plus booking fee) and are on sale through the Echo Arena by clicking here.

Alternatively you can purchase directly from LFC on the booking line (0843 170 5555, overseas +0044 151 907 9399), from the ticket office, Anfield, or from the Liverpool One club store.

You can also book VIP table packages by clicking here.

The event will also be raising funds for LFC Foundation, the club's charity arm, with an auction and global raffle being held and all proceeds going to LFC Foundation to help support charitable projects across the city delivered by the foundation, and partner charities including Alder Hey Children's Hospital. For more details visit www.charitystars.com/raffles.