Gerrard named player of the month

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has been named Barclays Premiership player of the month for December.

The England midfielder returned from a broken metatarsal bone before Christmas and made a massive impact immediately, guiding the Reds to fifth in the table.

The accolade has been handed to Gerrard by the Barclays Awards Panel, consisting of representatives from governing bodies, the media and supporters.

Nic Gault, from the panel, said: “December has been a phenomenal month for Steven Gerrard, particularly when you bear in mind the severity of the injury he has recovered from.

“His inspirational presence on the pitch has been sorely missed by Liverpool. Having him back on top form can only be a good thing for the Reds and England, as on his day he is one of the best midfielders in the world.”