Borussia Dortmund's loanee midfielder Nuri Sahin has stated his belief that he improved as a player during his six-month stint with Liverpool.
The Turkish international had joined the Reds on a season-long loan basis from Real Madrid during the summer.
However, the Merseysiders decided to cancel that deal yesterday and he has since returned to his former club Dortmund.
Despite his unsuccessful stints with Madrid and Liverpool, the 24-year-old has insisted that playing alongside players like Steven Gerrard has benefited his game.
"I have matured as a player after playing alongside the best players in my position," Sahin told the Dortmund's official website.
"Xabi Alonso when I was at Real Madrid, but especially Steven Gerrard at Liverpool - even though I didn't get to play a lot with him."
Sahin made 12 appearances for Liverpool.
