Lallana: Season with Stevie meant so much
As Adam Lallana takes a second to choose his words of tribute to Steven Gerrard, it's clear just how much respect the Liverpool midfielder holds for the club's legendary No.8.
That appreciation for the natural talent and unbreakable will power of the Scouser was part of the reason why Lallana jumped at an opportunity to move to Anfield last summer.
Since making the move from Southampton to Merseyside, the Englishman has clocked up 40 appearances in a maiden campaign often beset by frustrating injuries.
On an individual level, then, Lallana is approaching the season's conclusion with honest acknowledgement that he wants to show Kopites much more in 2015-16.
What he won't ever forget, though, was the chance to spend a year in the same team as a man who has rinsed every ounce of his ability on behalf of the Liverpool cause.
The 27-year-old told Liverpoolfc.com: "He's a player I've looked up to my whole life. Although I've only played a season with him, it has meant everything to me.
"He's a massive leader and he's got that aura around him. When he walks into a room, he doesn't need to say anything - he has got that presence.
"He's such a good leader and without saying a lot, he has got the presence. He's just a great man who wants to do what's best for the team at all times.
"Having the chance to play with him is something I'll tell my kids and hopefully my grandkids later on in life. I just wish him and his family well in their new adventure, I hope they enjoy it."
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Anfield was a scene of mass appreciation on Saturday as Gerrard ran out for his final game on home soil, in the Barclays Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace.
The 90 minutes did not unfold as hoped, despite Lallana putting Liverpool ahead. Instead, the visitors struck three times in response to secure maximum points.
But the send-off for the skipper was perfectly formed nevertheless, with messages of gratitude swapped from player to supporters once the match had concluded.
Lallana said: "When he walked out and we gave him the guard of honour, it was almost like if he had looked at us he would have had that [emotional] moment.
"It was a special day for him and the only disappointing thing was the result. We said before the game that it was an occasion that deserved a win.
"It might have been difficult circumstances for a few of the lads to play in, especially the ones that have known him the longest. But it's still in our hands to go to Stoke and win.
"It was a great send-off for Stevie, the fans have had their moment with him and he's had the moment with the fans. What a great man."