"Gerrard is one of the best players I've worked with" Rafa Benitez

Rafael Benitez has hailed Steven Gerrard as 'one of the best players' he has worked with.

On the eve of Gerrard's 500th game for Liverpool, the Reds boss paid tribute to the inspirational captain, referring to him as the complete midfielder.

During his time at Real Madrid and Valencia, Benitez has worked alongside some of the modern game’s most highly regarded players.

In their heyday, names such as Raul, Pablo Aimar and Roberto Ayala would have graced any teamsheet in world football.

Benitez applies similar credit to Gerrard and believes the 29-year-old can go down as one of the best players of all time.

“Without a doubt Stevie is one of the best players I have worked,” said Benitez. When I was at Real Madrid I worked with people like Raul and many other very good players who did very well in the first team."