By Todd Harby: Andrea Pirlo believes Steven Gerrard can play on for “many years”, the Italian has managed to prolong his career taking up a deeper midfield role and insists the England captain to do the same.
Pirlo, 34 is still pulling the strings for club and country playing just in front of the back four.
The Italian international firmly believes that intelligent players can adapt to roles to suit their ability, Pirlo believes Gerrard has the skills to operate in the defensive position.
This season we have seen Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers use Steven Gerrard in that deeper position, Liverpool are seeing the rewards from their captain’s new role as the Reds have since dragged themselves into the title-winning contention.
Pirlo said: “The intelligent players adapt and Gerrard has the ability to do that.
“He is an excellent passer of the ball, possesses an intelligent football brain, and has great vision.
At the age of 34, Pirlo remains a key part of Cesare Prandelli’s squad and he shows no signs of hanging up his boots just yet.
The midfield maestro believes Gerrard has it all for the Anfield ace to prolong his career in the coming years.
He added; “Top European clubs are always progressing with what they can do off the field.
“Training is getting more scientific, and we are constantly getting more educated on nutrition.
“If you look after yourself and are willing to adapt, there is no reason why you can’t play at the top-level until your late 30’s.
“Gerrard is a top professional, it is very possible he has many years left for Liverpool and England in a new role.”
Gerrard will come up against Andrea Pirlo in the World Cup Group D match where England play Italy on 14th June.