Lucas Leiva believes Steven Gerrard is perfectly placed to make a great career out of coaching.

The Liverpool legend has been appointed the U18s head coach from next season on having spent the past few months in a coaching role with the Academy.

After playing with Gerrard for a large portion of his career, Lucas is well-versed to pass judgement on the former captain and star midfielder who he feels will be a hit in the coaching caper.

"I have been around at the academy a couple of times and he is very excited," the Brazilian told Sky Sports.

"I think it is the best place for him at this moment, somewhere he can learn a lot.

"I am 100 per cent sure that he will have a lot of success, and good memories as well, because he is a guy who works really hard.

"He is a role model - for me for a long time, and, for sure, for all the players who he will coach now.

"He is possibly the best man to show which way you have to go to be successful."