A Combined XI of the current Liverpool team and the 2013-14 title challengers

Captain. Leader. Legend. Steve Gerrard

Deep-Lying Midfielder: Steven Gerrard

It is almost impossible to have a combined XI and not feature the Liverpool legend. A change of position by Rodgers saw Steven Gerrard deployed at the base of a midfield diamond. The talismanic midfielder took to the position like a fish to water and dominated.

He performed the defensive duties admirably, shielding the back line. The position also allowed him to showcase his passing ability, initiating the attack and controlling the tempo of the game.

His pin-point long balls into the front men and his deliveries from set-pieces saw Gerrard finish top of the assist charts with 13 assists to go along with his 13 goals. All this while passionately driving his team towards the title with his strong leadership. It is unfortunate that it had to end as it did.

Central Midfielder: Jordan Henderson

Jordan Henderson is one of three players in the current setup to have been involved in the 2013/14 team; the others being Simon Mignolet and Daniel Sturridge. Henderson has been an integral part of the team this season demonstrating his leadership qualities as club captain. For this team, however, it is the 2013/2014 version of Jordan Henderson that slots into midfield.

The vice captain was an impressive performer in midfield next to Gerrard with his tireless running, accurate passing and intensity. He also chipped in with a couple of delightful goals during the season. His durability also saw him play all of the Reds' first 34 games of the Premier League season, missing the next 3 only through suspension.

Henderson's influence was so much that season that some have argued that his suspension as a result of a red card in a 3-2 win over Manchester City was the turning point of the season that led to Liverpool missing out on the title. That slip aside, Henderson's suspension was certainly a major factor.

Central midfielder: Georginio Wijnaldum

Gini Wijnaldum is Liverpool's key man in midfield

Georginio Wijnaldum is easily one of the most underrated players in the Premier League. Signed from Newcastle where he operated as part of a front three or as a No.10, the Dutchman has found his feet in central midfield and excelled in defensive midfield for the Reds.

The 28-year-old has arguably been the best midfield performer for Liverpool in a variety of roles. He has even managed to maintain his position amidst stiff competition from among others new signings Fabinho, Naby Keita and Xherdan Shaqiri.

He has been great in possession, using his body to shield the ball brilliantly before picking his passes. He is also a joy to watch when receiving the ball on the half-turn and his ability to maneuver out of tight situations is equally impressive. He just about edged the current crop of midfielders including Fabinho, Milner and Keita as well as Lucas, Allen and Coutinho.