Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson has claimed that Steven Gerrard is still one of the best players in the country.

The 34-year-old has been criticised for his displays in the early weeks of the season, but he was inspirational for his side in their 1-1 draw against Everton this weekend.

"Stevie's still one of the best players in the Premier League," the Daily Mail quotes him as saying.

"There's no doubting his quality. A lot of teams have been putting someone to man-mark him, which shows just how good he is.

"I don't think he deserves any criticism. He's been the best player this league's probably seen in a long time and still is."

Gerrard has scored three goals in seven appearances for Liverpool this season.