Steven Gerrard praises ‘underrated’ Liverpool teammate | OneFootball

Steven Gerrard hails Didi Hamann as one of Liverpool’s most underrated midfielders

Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard has revealed which of his former teammates he believes did not receive the recognition he truly deserved during his time at Anfield. Speaking candidly on the Rio Meets podcast, the former Reds captain singled out Dietmar Hamann as one of Liverpool’s most underappreciated players, highlighting the German’s quiet brilliance and influence during a crucial era for the club.

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Gerrard reflects on Liverpool’s midfield core

Gerrard, who led Liverpool through some of the most memorable moments in the club’s modern history, shared that while many of his former teammates were world-class, some did not get the wider acclaim they merited.

“For midfielders, definitely Alonso,” he said when asked to name players for his dream five-a-side team. “Mascherano was good, but I only played with him for a short period of time, so I’d probably say Didi Hamann — all very underrated.”

Those words underline the respect Gerrard still holds for the man who anchored Liverpool’s midfield through a series of major triumphs. Hamann, signed by Gerard Houllier in 1999, provided the platform for creative talents like Gerrard to thrive. Calm, intelligent, and endlessly disciplined, Hamann’s understated performances were often the backbone of Liverpool’s success.

Hamann’s legacy at Anfield

During his seven years at Anfield, Hamann became a model of consistency. He was rarely flashy but always dependable — the kind of player whose influence often went unnoticed until he wasn’t there. His ability to read the game, anticipate danger, and protect the defence gave Gerrard and others the licence to attack with freedom.

Hamann’s crowning moment came on the grandest stage of all: the 2005 Champions League final in Istanbul. Introduced at half-time with Liverpool 3–0 down to AC Milan, his composure and tactical discipline helped turn the tide of one of football’s greatest comebacks. Gerrard later described Hamann’s impact that night as “immense,” noting that his presence changed the rhythm of the game entirely.

Mutual respect between two Liverpool greats

The admiration between the two midfielders has long been mutual. Hamann has often spoken about Gerrard’s drive, leadership, and quality, describing him as one of the most complete players he ever played alongside. Their partnership defined a period of transition for Liverpool — a blend of German efficiency and English dynamism that brought balance to the side.

While Gerrard’s goals and moments of inspiration often made headlines, Hamann’s influence was more subtle but equally vital. His tactical understanding and calmness under pressure helped shape Liverpool’s identity in the early 2000s, a period that culminated in major silverware under both Houllier and Rafael Benítez.

Lessons for Liverpool’s next generation

Gerrard’s praise for Hamann also serves as a reminder of the value of unsung heroes in football. In an era increasingly defined by flair and statistics, players like Hamann represent the importance of structure, intelligence, and selflessness. For Liverpool’s current and future midfielders — including the likes of Ryan Gravenberch — there is much to learn from the German’s understated excellence.

Hamann left Anfield in 2006 having won the Champions League, FA Cup, UEFA Cup, and two League Cups. Like Gerrard, he never lifted the Premier League trophy, yet his contributions remain woven into the fabric of Liverpool’s modern history.

As Gerrard reflected on his years at the club, his tribute to Hamann spoke volumes: a leader recognising another, united not by glory but by respect and shared purpose.