Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith explains why he admires Steven Gerrard

Former South Africa cricket captain Graeme Smith has revealed his admiration for Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, according to The Sport Review.

The Merseysiders are currently two points clear at the top of the Premier League table following their dramatic 3-2 victory over Manchester City last weekend.

The win coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster and the 33-year-old midfielder was visibly moved at the final whistle and Smith is adamant Gerrard’s attitude is a rarity.

“Initially, what has to strike you most about Steven is that you don’t get people like him in modern sport often.

“His loyalty, pride and passion for Liverpool is so rare in these times and it makes him unique because just by that, he doesn’t have to say anything. The way he carries himself and the club says enough, he leads by example,” he insisted.

Plenty of neutrals want to see Gerrard emerge victorious in the title race and Smith’s words reveal that his leadership is a shining example not only to football, but sport in general.

“Another thing I really admire about him is his calmness on the field. Regardless of the pressure or what is needed, he keeps his head and gets his instructions across.

“I watched him constantly talking to his players, guiding them. The thing about Gerrard is what he asks of his team, he delivers himself. It is very easy to follow him, and be inspired by him because his career is leadership enough,” Smith declared.

The Reds travel to Carrow Road on Sunday as just four games stand between them and a maiden Premier League title.