The England captain has reverted to being a holding midfielder, dictating Liverpool’s play from deep. Gerrard was a defensive midfielder for the early years of his career, before excelling in a more advanced, free role in his prime.
Now the legs have started to wear at 33, a shift back into a defensive position may prolong his career by years. Proof that you can teach an old dog – Chihuahua or otherwise – new tricks, Gerrard has become more disciplined in how he plays to the advantage of the team.
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Anchor man: Steven Gerrard (No 8) is shows as one of the deepest players on the pitch in the matches against Fulham (shown in the left position map) and Arsenal (right)
Look at Liverpool’s average positions from their last two matches. Gerrard (8) is one of the deepest players in the whole side, and vital to each win. Against Arsenal, he’s just about level with centre-halves Martin Skrtel (37) and Daniel Agger (4).
Rodgers uses two attacking full-backs in Aly Cissoko (20) and Jon Flanagan (38) so it has been imperative Gerrard curbs his attacking instincts, retaining his position and hence the shape of the team.
His primary job is to dictate play and start moves, feeding the two advanced central midfielders, Jordan Henderson (14) and Philippe Coutinho (10).
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