If there is a more influential midfield player in the world than Steven Gerrard he is doing a good job at keeping himself hidden. The Liverpool skipper epitomises the never-say-die attitude. All you need to know about the player, known as Stevie G, was highlighted one night in May 2005 in Istanbul. Liverpool trailed AC Milan 3-0 in the Champions League final when Gerrard headed Liverpool back into the game. He turned to his team-mates, urging them to believe they could still win. With Gerrard at his inspirational best Liverpool staged one of the great comebacks of soccer history to draw level at 3-3, before clinching the trophy in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.
Since making his Liverpool debut in November 1998 Gerrard has written himself into the book of Reds' greats, effortlessly donning the captain's armband at the start of the 2003-04 season. While at Anfield Gerrard has become only player to have scored in the four most important cup finals, with that Champions League success accompanied by scores in the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Cup.
Indeed, Gerrard's effort in Liverpool's FA Cup triumph against West Ham in 2006 is widely regarded as the greatest goal ever scored in the final of the famous old trophy. With West Ham leading 3-2 and seconds left on the clock Gerrard unleashed an unstoppable 35-yard volley into the Hammers net. Gerrard seems to specialise in crucial goals, many scored after surging runs from midfield by the world's best box-to-box soccer player.
During a disappointing era for England internationally Gerrard has often been a cause for hope, racking up more than 60 international caps and twice captaining his country. Gerrard's outstanding contribution to soccer has earned him some of the game's most prestigious awards, including PFA Young Player of the Year, PFA Player of the Year, UEFA Most Valuable Player and three times nominated for the FIFA Player of the Year award. Just reward for the Kop idol for whom anything seems possible.