Liverpool's Spearing says Gerrard influence crucial for career

Liverpool midfielder Jay Spearing is grateful for the influence of Steven Gerrard on his career.

The 23-year-old feels the influence Gerrard has had on his development cannot be understated.

Spearing told liverpoolfc.tv: "He's helped me massively from the moment I came down (to Melwood). I've been here for quite a while now, but even now if he thinks there is something I can improve on or if there's something he thinks I can do before games we play together, he'll tell me.

"If I do something wrong he's not afraid to tell me. I was scared to say anything to him a couple of years ago, but I've come to the stage now where we can have a full conversation and if I disagree with something we'll speak about it.

"He was my idol when I was growing up, so now that I can play alongside him is brilliant."