When Lionel Messi picked the greatest English midfielder
In 2016, Lionel Messi picked Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard over Paul Scholes and Frank Lampard in the age-long debate of who was the better English midfielder. The former Reds captain was one of the most revered midfielders of his generation, and alongside the other two stars, formed the midfield of the Three Lions' golden generation.
Gerrard registered 114 caps for the England national team, scoring 21 goals. He could not help the Three Lions win their first international trophy since the 1966 World Cup, but he led Liverpool to the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Cup (now Europa League), two UEFA Super Cups, two FA Cups, and three League Cups.
Speaking to the press in 2016, the Argentine great hailed the midfield great, saying (via SPORTbible):
“Personally, I think [Steven] Gerrard is England’s greatest-ever player. I wish him a happy retirement.”
