Ten years after AC Milan’s disastrous Champions League Final versus Liverpool Paolo Maldini clearly holds no grudges, praising opposition skipper that night, Steven Gerrard, as he ends his association with the Premier League club.
The 34-year-old netted the first of the Merseysiders’ goals in Istanbul as they recovered from a three-goal deficit, but after 17 years with the club leaves this summer.
“What I always liked about Gerrard was its silence on the pitch, instead he had an ability to inspire his comrades by force and with a few words,” Maldini told LFCTV.
“I had another example like him as captain, Franco Baresi, what I have learned from players like them is to do, rather than talk.
“I think Gerrard was a very complete player, personality, technique, could set the tempo and also the ability to score, including free-kicks and penalties.
“The modern and complete player.
“I remember that game [2005 Champions League Final] very well. Steven always helped his teammates, even in defence.
“It was a special game in which we dominated Liverpool for 110 minutes to 120.
“He was the difference, it was the example Stevie showed to his teammates.”
