James Milner: 'Lionel Messi couldn't replace Steven Gerrard at Liverpool'

James Milner has claimed that even Barcelona star Lionel Messi would struggle to replace Steven Gerrard at Liverpool.

The former captain ended a 17-year association with the Anfield side at the end of the season by joining Los Angeles Galaxy after a trophy-laden career that spanned over 700 games for the Reds.

Milner feels that even four-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi would be unable to replicate Gerrard's success at his boyhood club.

The former Manchester City midfielder told ABC: "I don't think there's someone on the planet who could replace Gerrard for what he did for Liverpool football club over the years, so as a team we need to replace his output.

"Even Messi would struggle to replace Stevie for what he's done for Liverpool over the years.

"What he's done on and off the field, as a player and as a captain, as a person, he's been amazing. It's a big void to fill but I'm sure as a team we can do that."

Milner joined Liverpool from City on a free transfer earlier this summer.