Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres has paid tribute to Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

The 31-year-old spent three-and-half-seasons at the English club and struck up a close friendship with the former England captain, even returning to Anfield to play in his charity match against Jamie Carragher.

He told Marca Plus Magazine: "Out of all the great players I have played with, Gerrard, for me, is the best.

"But he is more than that - he is a good friend who, as a captain, is always there for his players.

"'I know what Liverpool means to him, so yes I would have loved to see my friend finish his final season with a trophy, but it was not to be.

"He has had so much success for Liverpool that I am sure the final game is going to be very emotional for him and the fans."