Rafa pleased with Gerrard's improved responsibility

Rafa has been delighted with the impact his skipper had made in recent weeks. Gerrard has been employed on the right of midfield allowing the team to be more balanced. The success of the shift is reflected in our recent run of results. Last season it looked like Xabi was Rafa's manager on the pitch but now Rafa has stated that Gerrard is capable of this role:

"Steve is a player who can play all positions," says the Anfield boss. "He likes to play in the centre because he receives more balls and plays more of the game, but at the moment he has freedom on the right. "He is the captain and I talk with him about my ideas. He was a key player for us last season but now I think he is more responsible - not because I tell him he has to be but because he plays that way. I think he's more happy."

I believe Gerrard is more focused on his football this season now that the uncertainty regarding his future is over. He has already scored eleven goals and continues to lead the team by example with some inspirational performances.