Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard is backing teammate Maxi Rodriguez to have a big World Cup with Argentina.

Maxi made a big impact at Anfield following his January arrival last season.

"Maxi is a fantastic player," said Reds skipper Gerrard.

"He's got good movement and as a footballer it's a pleasure to play with good players. That's what Maxi is. He is a fantastic player. He is an intelligent player and he can unlock defences."

Gerrard's words are echoed by Fernando Torres, who played with Maxi at Atletico.

"Maxi is the kind of player that is always up to the challenge," said the Spaniard. "The more his team needs him, the more he offers.

"Maxi is hungry and when you have his hunger you can achieve anything."