Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has claimed that Steven Gerrard is one of the few players who makes his teammates better.

Gerrard is currently preparing for the final two games of his Liverpool career before his move to LA Galaxy in the summer, and Benitez, who led Gerrard and the team to Champions League success in 2005, is still full of admiration for the veteran midfielder.

"Steven has always led by example," the Napoli boss told the Liverpool Echo. "Thanks to him the other good players that we had were always better.

"He talks with players and pushes his team-mates on. That night in Istanbul they knew he could make the difference and they were following him.

"With Steven you get commitment, passion, a leader and a player with power, talent and excellent technique when it comes to passing, heading and shooting."

Gerrard's final game at Anfield will come against Crystal Palace on Saturday.