Graeme Souness: Steven Gerrard is one of the greatest Liverpool players ever

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard (C)

Graeme Souness has claimed that Steven Gerrard should not blame himself for Liverpool’s failed title bid this season, with it being a leaky defence that has seen the Reds just fall short in capturing their first league title in 24 years and not solely based on his slip against Chelsea. While the ex-Liverpool manager also hailed Gerrard as one of the greatest Reds players ever.

Gerrard’s slip to allow Demba Ba in to open the scoring on the stroke of half-time proved a critical turning point in the destination of the title, as Liverpool slipped to a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea and left their fate of their hands again, with Manchester City storming to five wins in their final five games to clinch their second Premier League trophy in three years.

Brendan Rodgers has indicated defensive reinforcements are his priority for summer transfer dealings and Souness has pinpointed Liverpool’s defensive record as the reason they came up short in their quest for gold, absolving Gerrard of any blame.

Souness told Sky Sports, “Liverpool let in too many avoidable goals.

“Gerrard should be devastated because Liverpool were in the box seat and had their destiny in their own hands – but he shouldn’t be disappointed with himself, as he has carried that team for years.

“He has been a worldly and one of the greatest Liverpool players in history – and his slip against Chelsea was not the reason Manchester City won the Premier League, it was letting in goals.”

Steven Gerrard assisted 13 goals in the Premier League this season, more than any other player in the division.