Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has likened Carling Cup hero Craig Bellamy to former teammate Gary McAllister.

For Gerrard, the striker's performances are reminiscent of McAllister, who also arrived at Anfield in the twilight of his career and went on to help the club win five trophies in a year.

"Craig has been superb since he's come in, he's a fantastic professional who works really hard and he got his rewards here," Gerrard told Liverpoolfc.tv.

"He was a menace all night - that's what type of player he is. He's in your face, he runs in behind, he doesn't let you settle on the ball and I'm sure if he carries on he can have the impact at this club that Gary McAllister did."