Former Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard says that James Milner can be an important player for Liverpool alongside names like Lucas Leiva, Joe Allen, and Jordan Henderson.

The former Manchester City winger joined the club on a free transfer. Milner had been in talks with Arsenal as well, but he chose the move to Anfield largely because of the first-team opportunities that he will get under Brendan Rodgers. It is reported that the Northern Irishman sees Milner as an important player for Liverpool already with suggestions that he could be given the captain’s armband straightaway.

Gerrard will now be commenting about Liverpool from faraway after having chosen to join LA Galaxy. The club will have a big job on their hands to fill the boots of Gerrard, who has been a vital player for the club in the last 15 years. Milner will offer a wealth of experience of the Premier league to the newcomers like Alberto Moreno. More are expected to join in the coming months, but Gerrard reckons that the midfielder will be an important part for Liverpool. The club are revamping the squad after a poor campaign that saw them finish only sixth. Milner also joins the Merseyside outfit after having won numerous titles with City.

"He'll bring a vast majority of experience. I think it's a very safe signing in the fact that he's won things. I think he'll bring energy to the midfield, he's a good passer, he's safe in possession. I'm very confident he'll slot in very nicely and he'll adapt to Brendan's way of playing very quickly.I can picture him now with Lucas (Leiva), Joe Allen and (Jordan) Henderson and I can see them doing a good job. He'll settle in very quickly. He's used to the league, he's very experienced at domestic level,” said Gerrard.