Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that Jamie Carragher still has a job to do for the club until May after the centre-back announced his decision to retire at the end of the season.
Rodgers said that Liverpool want to win the Europa League and finish as high as possible in the league, targets in which Carragher has a "significant role to play".
"We still have a lot to play for as we look to finish as high up the Barclays Premier League as possible and continue our progression in the Europa League, a competition we'd like to win," Rodgers told Liverpool's official website.
"He will have a significant role to play for us between now and May and I know his commitment and dedication on the pitch will remain as it has done his entire career at Liverpool.
"Jamie's focus is always on doing what is best for the team and he has said he doesn't want any distractions while there are still important matches to be played and won."
Rodgers did say, however, that once the season was complete Carragher would get the "recognition he deserves".
"When the time is right we, as a team and a club, will give the man the tribute and recognition he deserves," he said. "I know the supporters will want to say thank you to someone who has served them with such distinction for so long."
Carragher has made 152 European appearances for the Reds, more than any other Liverpool player.
Matt Domm
