Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic is his Player of the Year.

The Football Writers' Footballer of the Year told the People: "Every time I watch Manchester United, being a Liverpool player, you want them to lose.

"But Vidic has been a rock.

"He and Rio Ferdinand have been superb and they have saved United so many points this season and, for me, United owe those two big time.

"Maybe it's been a bit harsh on Vidic.

"I still voted for him in the PFA awards and if I'd had a Football Writers' vote, I would have voted for him again because he has had a magnificent season.

"Possibly he's been judged because of the incident against us at Old Trafford when he didn't deal with the ball and Fernando scored. Maybe that's gone against him for both awards.

"He's still had a great season and it's just unfortunate - but maybe I have to thank Fernando for this award!"