Picture Credit: UEFA
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard opened up on the player of his choice between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The long existing debate has seen many fans and players jump in with harsh opinions to make the point. However, the former Liverpool midfielder was respectful in his comparison and disclosed the reasons about his choice. Adding to the debate, Gerrard has picked the Argentine over the Portuguese talisman. And while many might have predicted the outcome due to the club rivalry factor, the English veteran states otherwise.
Gerrard explains reason behind choosing Messi
Steven Gerrard, in his Liverpool days, regularly featured against Cristiano Ronaldo, who was playing for Manchester United back then. Following the age-old rivalry between the clubs, the heated clash attracted a lot of attention. The English veteran explains how he sees Cristiano Ronaldo as more 'selfish' player of the two, while Lionel Messi picks the best option in front of goal, even if it is a pass. To quote Steven Gerrard's exact words -
"I think they're different in many ways but what I will say to them, and the biggest compliment I can give them, is they're operating on a different planet than any other footballer out there at the moment. I go Messi. I'm not selfish, I'm a team player."
However, the veteran has clarified that when he means more 'selfish', he does not mean it in a bad way, it is just his way of describing Ronaldo's goal-scoring instinct. Furthermore, when asked about his five-a-side dream team, shockingly enough, Ronaldo did not feature in that line-up either. So, who made it to Gerrard's ideal line-up?
Gerrard reveals his dream team
While Steven Gerrard makes it to the dream team of many fans, the legend himself was asked to pick players for his five-a-side dream team. Answering the question, Englishman picked - Gianluigi Buffon (GK), Paolo Maldini (Defender), Zinedine Zidane (Midfielder), Ronaldinho (Forward), Lionel Messi (Forward).
When asked about skipping Ronaldo, the former Liverpool midfielder once again made the point that he prefers team chemistry, and Ronaldo being more of 'selfish' player will not suit his style. With the statements, the midfielder might have sparked the GOAT debate among fans once more. However, with both Ronaldo and Messi reaching the twilight of their careers, it is high time that fans enjoy both of them add more to the beautiful game regardless of their choices or preferences.