Rodgers: Gerrard still an integral part of Liverpool

Rodgers is confident Gerrard can contribute even at 33. (Getty Images)

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is convinced that the persistent shoulder injury that troubled Steven Gerrard in the recent past will not be an issue for them next season and that the skipper is still an integral part of his squad.

Gerrard didn’t feature in the final two matches of last season as he underwent surgery to rectify his shoulder problem. But he has been sighted at training sessions with his teammates recently.

Rodgers said: “He’s 33 now, but Steven is still an integral part of what I’m trying to do here and will be for the next few years.”

“He had his operation towards the end of the season and the plan was for him to continue his rehab over the off-season. It’s a big credit to him – he’s worked tirelessly over the summer.

“He won’t be too far away. He looks great and is in great condition.”

Rodgers was also thrilled with the signing of Kolo Toure, particularly after the retirement of Jamie Carragher.

He said: “”Losing someone like Jamie Carragher was going to leave a massive hole for us in terms of his experience.”

“Kolo’s experience is going to be really important for us – but not just that. He’s someone with a winning mentality.

“There weren’t too many available who were better than Kolo Toure. He’s played with big clubs, he understands what a winning mentality is about. He’s a good man as well – he knows what the culture is like at a big club.”

Source: Mirror