Best player gong for Gerrard

STEVEN GERRARD has been voted the best player in Europe in UEFA’s annual awards.

The Liverpool captain was voted ‘most valuable player’ last season by a panel of leading coaches.

Chelsea’s Petr Cech was named best keeper and John Terry best defender.

Two Brazilians took the other awards - AC Milan’s Kaka was voted best midfielder, Barcelona’s Ronaldinho the best forward.

Gerrard said: “I’m feeling shocked looking at some of the players that have won this award in the past and some of the unbelievable players involved last year. It’s a great honour.”

Rafael Benitez hailed Gerrard as the man who made Liverpool “believe” in last season’s final.

The Reds boss said: “For sure, I agree with UEFA’s decision in giving this award to Steven.

“He was an important player for us right through last season’s Champions League competition.”