Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has spoken out about English club’s apparent transfer policy of signing younger talent to nurture players, like Liverpool have with the signings of Joe Allen, Fabio Borini and Daniel Sturridge since Brendan Rodgers has taken over at Anfield.
“I disagree with the policy to be honest,” Gerrard told The Guardian.
“I’ve seen many signings throughout the world who have gone to clubs at the age of 28, 29 or even older and done fantastic jobs.
“The main example at the moment is, if Chelsea don’t keep Frank Lampard and another big club comes in and gets him and he produces top attacking midfield performances for the next two years, someone is going to get a bargain. What is he, 34?
“I can understand the policy that everyone wants young, bright, British players but I don’t agree 100 per cent that should be the only way.
“I think you’ve got to add experience to young gifted players as well because in this league and at this level you need experience.
“I look at Aston Villa now and the majority of them are going to be fantastic players in time but in my opinion that team needs two or three old heads to guide them. To be successful at this level you need to get the mix right.”
Gerrard is clearly sticking up for his mate Lamaprd there but Rodgers will be unlikely to make any bid for the Chelsea man, the pair have shown at international level they are, somehow, unable to play well in the same side.
Sam Jewell