Gerrard names three stars who make Liverpool a different animal

Steven Gerrard reckons James Milner is in the form of his life at Liverpool and after naming him as one of three players who have taken the Reds onto another level this season.

The Rangers manager has watched with pride at the way Liverpool have won six out of six matches in the Premier League this season – though Jurgen Klopp readily admits that record will be handed the severest of tests when they face midweek cup victors Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday teatime.

After naming Roberto Firmino as the star Liverpool cannot simply live without, Reds legend Gerrard has also outlined which other three players have caught his eye this season.

In highlighting the performances of Milner, Gerrard claims the standard of his displays has given summer signings Naby Keita and Fabinho the time to “find their feet” in Liverpool’s midfield.

“Milner is causing them selection problems. He’s in the form of his life,” Gerrard said.

“On current form he is the first name on the teamsheet.”

And Gerrard added that goalkeeper Alisson, who joined from Roma this summer in a deal worth up to a reported £66.8m, and centre-back Virgil van Dijk, a £75m signing from Southampton in January, have “made a big difference”.

“Liverpool have looked a different animal since Van Dijk came in and Alisson brings more composure and trust,” he said.

“In time that’ll be the big difference – the front three will always score goals and the midfielders back them up too – but it’s all been about trying to improve defensively and they’re very close.”

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