Have Liverpool found the next Steven Gerrard? Emre Can talks up midfield ace

Emre Can (right) says James Milner has passed on his experience to younger Liverpool players

JAMES MILNER is a strong candidate to replace Steven Gerrard at Liverpool, claims midfielder Emre Can.

 

England international Milner, 29, joined Liverpool as a free agent from Manchester City this summer.

He took up the role of vice-captain at Anfield and has played every minute of the team's season so far.

 

And Can, 21, says the Leeds United academy product recognises his role in passing on advice to younger players.

"I haven't had too much experience of playing alongside him just yet but it is clear that he is a fighter, is very experienced and is capable of playing good football," Can told the Official LFC Magazine.

 

"I have already seen that he passes on what he knows to the younger players. He talks to us a lot and that can only help us.

"We have a good mix in the Liverpool team. We have got experienced players but also young players. 

"The experienced players need to pass on their knowledge to the young members of the squad so with Stevie [Gerrard] leaving at the end of last season it is definitely good to have another experienced player like James Milner here."

Gerrard departed Liverpool at the end of last season after signing an 18-month contract with MLS side LA Galaxy worth £6million.