Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard rates teammate Martin Skrtel as a future world star.

Ahead of England's friendly with Slovakia, Gerrard said: "It will be a good tie. Martin is a fantastic player who is getting better all the time.

"I am sure he will be a world class player in the future.

"If his teammates are as good as him we're in for a really tough game."

Gerrard revealed the pair joked about the clash before leaving Melwood for international duty.

"He is really tough and vocal on the pitch but he's quiet off it. We've had a bit of banter, though," said the Huyton-born midfielder, who is set to earn his 71st cap this weekend.

"We're looking forward to testing ourselves against them."