Liverpool legend Tommy Smith has hailed the character of Jamie Carragher ahead of the defender's last match for the club.

The long-serving centre-back will make his last appearance for the club when they take on Queens Park Rangers at Anfield today.

Smith, who made over 400 appearances for the Reds, called the 35-year-old a "great man" who has never lost touch with his roots, despite the lavish riches thrust upon the modern day player.

"Jamie is a great defender but also a great guy," he wrote in his Liverpool Echo column.

"I'll always remember when I had a heart attack six years ago. I was at home recovering when Jamie showed up at my door for a cup of tea.

"He came in and ended up mowing my lawn for me. No matter what he has done in the game, he has never forgotten his roots."

Carragher made his debut in a League Cup defeat to Middlesbrough in 1997.