Steven Gerrard: Man United star is one of the best around
Steven Gerrard admits that he is a keen admirer of Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic
Steven Gerrard has admitted that Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic is one of the best players he has ever faced.
The Serbian midfielder has slotted straight into first-team affairs at Old Trafford since joining the club from Chelsea in the summer transfer window.
Many were surprised that Chelsea opted to sell Matic to the Red Devils after he played a key role in helping the Blues win the Premier League title under Antonio Conte last season.
Matic helped Manchester United to claim a 1-0 victory over Benfica in the Champions League on Wednesday night as Jose Mourinho’s men continued their 100 per cent start in Europe this season.
And speaking after the game, Gerrard admitted that he is a keen admirer of the defensive midfielder.
Speaking to BT Sport, Gerrard said: “He’s one of the toughest opponents I’ve played against.
“He’s very leggy, he’s good in the air, he competes, he always gets a toe in, he can run and match your runs.
“He’s very aggressive with the ball and without the ball, he can burst past you with it and he can catch you if you manage to stride past him on the odd occasion.”
Matic has made 11 appearances for Manchester United so far this season and has been a regular starter in Mourinho’s first team.
The midfielder will be expecting to feature for the Red Devils when they return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon with a trip to face Huddersfield.
Manchester United are currently second in the table and two points behind leaders Manchester City after eight games.
